Tag: support

More than half of young carers aren’t getting the breaks they need, alarming survey finds

Young carers take open top bus to Westminster on Young Carers Action Day to call on MPs and decision-makers for more support

  • Almost a quarter of young carers say no one else can provide the care they do
  • Two-fifths worry too much about the person they care for to take a break
  • 72% miss out on the school holidays, nearly half miss out on friendships and almost one in five say they’re missing time out of their education

More than half of young carers can’t get a regular break from caring, while almost a quarter say there’s no one else to provide the care they do, an alarming survey has found.

The findings have been released by Carers Trust for Young Carers Action Day on 12 March. The time young carers spend on their caring role mean young carers often miss out on education, friendships, holidays and many other things their classmates take for granted, the survey showed.

The survey of 423 young and young adult carers found nearly one in five rarely or never get a break (17%), while 40% said they got one only some of the time. Just 15% said they could take a break whenever they wanted.

Asked what stopped them getting a break, almost a quarter (23%) said there was no one else to provide the care they give. Two-fifths (40%) said they worried too much about the person they care for to take time out from looking after them.

One young carer said: “I feel bad for taking breaks and when I have time for myself I’m always thinking that I could be doing something else to help out. It’s isolating because I can’t meet up with friends. I can text but it’s just not the same. Everyone’s planning their holidays and trips but I know I can’t go on holiday.”

Almost three-quarters of young carers (72%) said they miss out on the holidays because they provide care, the survey showed.

Many also felt they were shut out of a lot of the things most other children get to do. Nearly half (49%) miss out on friendships, and 46% on hobbies. Almost two-thirds (65%) said they lacked time to themselves and nearly one in five (19%) felt they were missing their education.

Young Carers Action Day is an annual campaign organised by Carers Trust with its network of local carer organisations.

It aims to highlight the challenges faced by the UK’s one million young carers (under-18s) and the hundreds of thousands of young adult carers aged 18-25. At least 16,000 young carers in the UK, some just five years old, are caring for 50 hours a week or more, according to the most recent census data.

This year the theme of Young Carers Action Day is “Give Me A Break”. It was chosen by young carers themselves to show their need for respite but also to be given a chance in life by schools, employers and politicians.

Carers Trust is calling on the UK Government to ensure all young carers have access to a properly funded break from their caring role. Politicians, education providers, employers and other organisations are also being asked to sign the Young Carers Covenant, a pledge to help young carers improve their lives.

Kirsty McHugh, Carers Trust’s CEO, said: “Across the UK, children as young as five are spending huge amounts of their free time caring for others. We know this can have a devastating effect on their education, wellbeing and future prospects. It is simply wrong that, as a country, we are asking so many children to take on so much.

“Those in power need to give young carers a break. If we want young people to thrive, as well as those for which they care, we need to give these young people the chance to take time out from their caring duties.”

The Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza said: “As Children’s Commissioner, I know from speaking to young carers that they provide essential support to their family members and take on extra responsibilities to look after their loved ones, sometimes at a cost to their own education.

“Young carers often have to navigate extremely challenging circumstances alone without extra support, which can have a big impact on their lives and wellbeing.”

“I am collecting evidence from schools and colleges about how they support young carers in their own settings, to build a national picture of how these children’s extra responsibilities are being recognised. We should be no less ambitious for young carers than we are for all children.”

On Young Carers Action Day, Carers Trust will be giving a group of young carers a break by taking them on an open top bus tour in London. The bus will be stopping at Westminster where politicians are being invited to hop aboard, meet the children and hear their concerns directly.

The day before, young carers from Hartlepool Carers Centre will hand in a letter to 10 Downing Street. It will ask for the Prime Minister’s support for the Young Carers Covenant and cross-government action to improve opportunities for young and young adult carers.

In Scotland, there will be a mass gathering of young carers at Holyrood where they will meet MSPs, share their experiences and call for more support.

There will also be a roundtable discussion with decision-makers about better access to breaks for young carers. A Young Carer Action Day Parliamentary Debate will take place in the Scottish Parliament Chamber with over 100 young carers in attendance.

In Wales, Carers Trust’s Youth Council of young carers supported by local carer organisations across the country will join together at the Senedd.

They’ll be quizzing MSs about how they can work towards a country where young carers are supported to access the short breaks they need and they’ll have a chance to hear from former young carers about the breaks they’ve had in life in their careers and education. 

For the fifth year in a row, creative arts charity Create and Carers Trust are partnering for a special showcase of artwork made by young carers during four Young Carers Action Day 2025 projects. These have taken place across the four nations of the UK.

The online showcase is on the “Give Me a Break” theme and highlights the importance of giving young carers time off from their caring responsibilities to look after their own wellbeing.

This year’s showcase will feature puppetry, photography, prints and collages specifically created for the day by young people in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

More support for people affected by self-harm

Funding for charity web service and training programme

A national service supporting people affected by self-harm is to benefit from £1.5 million of Scottish Government funding over the next two years.

The funding for Self-Harm Network Scotland (SHNS) will enable it to continue its webchat service which offers 1-to-1 assistance out of hours and a peer support programme which has provided 2,851 sessions since funding began in 2021 – an average of eight sessions per person.

SHNS also deliver free training to individuals and organisations – either in-person or online – to increase understanding of self-harm and reduce stigma. To date, 3,373 people in sectors including education and social work have taken part.

SHNS is run by mental health charity Penumbra. Visiting the support centre at Hope Point in Dundee, Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd said: “I am pleased to be able to announce this continued support for Self-Harm Network Scotland.

“The way in which people seek support and discuss self-harm has changed in recent years with many looking online for help, so online peer support and the webchat service is a crucial addition to the existing range of mental health services available. This work is also helping to build our understanding about self-harm and the most helpful interventions so that we can continue to improve the services on offer.

“It also encouraging that so many have taken up the offer of free training as this will go a long way towards reducing the stigma which can all too often prevent people from seeking the help they need.”

SHNS Manager Darren Boyd said: “We are delighted to announce that Self-Harm Network Scotland has received additional funding from the Scottish Government for the next two years.

“This vital investment is a powerful vote of confidence in the work we do to support people who self-harm, their loved ones and professionals working with them. It enables us to broaden our community-based initiatives, continue our peer support services, and develop new resources – all designed to empower those in need with compassion, understanding, and hope.

“We are grateful to be able to continue our work supporting the Scottish Government and COSLA in our shared vision that anyone in Scotland affected by self-harm receives compassionate support, without fear of stigma or discrimination.”

Peer supporter Kayleigh Wanless said: “When I was around 14 years old, I began using self-harm to cope with anxiety and depression.

“I have spent time throughout my life in both child and adult mental health services. The realisation I had from my first time leaving CAMHS was ‘I want to help people like they’ve helped me’.

“Since then, I have taken the upset I experienced and turned it into something valuable. SHNS has allowed me to take pride in the empathy and compassion I have gained from times of struggle and has given me the opportunity to become a person who now helps others to reach their goals.”

The £1.5 million is part of the wider Fairer Funding pilot which is providing more than £60 million to charities across Scotland.

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home thanks Morrisons Granton shoppers

A huge thank you to everyone who donated to our Pet Food Drive at Morrisons Granton last weekend!

Because of your generosity, we collected enough food to provide 2,385 meals for pets across East and Central Scotland. 🤩

Pet food banks are a lifeline for so many pet owners.

Thanks to you, we can help keep pets where they belong – at home, with the families who love them 💚

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society announces 180 recipients of the 2025 Keep it Fringe fund

Bursaries of £2,500 to support artists bringing work to this year’s Fringe

Today, Friday 7 March, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 Keep it Fringe fund.

This is the third year of the fund, an initiative created to support Fringe artists to realise their professional ambitions, and in 2025 funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The Keep it Fringe fund was launched in 2023 by the Fringe Society honorary President Phoebe Waller-Bridge and funded by the Fleabag for Charity campaign, alongside funds donated to the Fringe Society by Edinburgh Gin.

Supported by £1 million from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) over two years (2024 and 2025), the Fringe Society is today announcing the successful 180 recipients of £2,500 bursaries for Fringe 2025. The fund received 848 applications, which were reviewed by 28 independent assessors.

Keep it Fringe shows span a range of topics, including IVF, Miss Universe pageants, Dolly the Sheep, incel culture, Deliveroo cyclists, tinnitus and football hooliganism, with companies and artists covering nearly every genre in the Fringe programme. Representing a mix of free and ticketed shows, 33% of the successful applicants identify as disabled or have a health condition, and more than 30% come from a working-class background.

The Fringe Society hopes to continue the Keep it Fringe fund for as long as possible and is actively seeking new funding and donations to ensure the long-term sustainability of this important initiative. Donations can be made here, and updates will be provided as the project progresses. 

Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy said: ‘The Fringe is the largest performing arts festival in the world and gives creatives from across the UK the opportunity to showcase the wide variety of talent this nation has to offer.

‘This funding will ensure that artists from all backgrounds have the opportunity to put on a show for the international audiences and industry professionals that gather in Edinburgh each summer and enable the Fringe to continue to boost our up-and-coming artists.’

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: ‘This year we received the highest number of applications to date which highlights how valued and needed this initiative is. 

“We are thankful to DCMS for providing the funding that has enabled us to continue the Keep it Fringe fund for the last two years. We know that for many artists the financial challenges of putting on a show can prevent some from coming to the Fringe, and this funding will enable the Edinburgh Fringe to be more accessible to artists from across the UK. 

‘We are keen to continue the Keep it Fringe fund, as we have heard countless testimonials on how invaluable this support is. If you think you can help, please get in touch with the Fringe Society team.’

THE SUCCESSFUL RECIPIENTS OF THE KEEP IT FRINGE FUND (alphabetical):  

This list does not include the full list of recipients as three shows are still going through the final stages of confirmation.

4PLAY, Colours Run

Agent Red Arts, AUDITION

Aisheshek Magauina, 2 Muslim 2 Furious 2: Go Halal or Go Home

Alastair Clark, Alastair Clark: On The Record

Alex Mitchell, Alex Mitchell: “Tough”

Alfie Webster, lenny.

Alice Cockayne, Alice Cockayne:

Alison Affleck, ali affleck and The Traveling Janes

Alison Spittle, Fat Bitch

Amy Mason, Amy Mason: No Thanks

Amy Yeo, Well Behaved Women

Angela King, A Period of Faith

Aoife Parr, anatomy of pain

Arron Jones Entertainment, #1 Greatest Hit Rock ‘N’ Roll Magic Show

Audaciously Tenacious Theatre, Perfect Dead Girls

Ava Beaux, Ava & Beaux: Tales of Magic

Belis Abysss, Unlearning Mastery

Best in Class, Best in Class

Beth Mullen, Clementine

Bobby Bradley & Emery Hunter, Dregs

Brass Tacks Comedy, Jack Traynor

Cameron Sinclair Harris, Cameron Sinclair Harris: PLANETS!!!

Caroline Madds, Buzzin’

Caroline McEvoy, Caroline McEvoy: Train Man

Castile Collective Ltd, The Queen Is Mad

Chakira Alin, House Party

Christian Dart, Christian Dart: GUMSHOE!

Claire Parry, I am Claire Parry (very funny stand-up)

Clare Fraenkel, I WAS A GERMAN

Clare Noy, Funny Though

Cloud, Warm As Summer, Bright As Blood

Coral Bevan / Asparagus Mousse, Fisherman Jon: What’s on the end of my rod? – a clown odyssey

Curly, C U Later, Simulator

Daniel McKeon, Boyboss

Danielle Reales, Spectrum

Dare Theatre, Youth In Flames

David Ferguson, David Ferguson: Bedhead

Dean T. Beirne, Fated to Pretend

Dee Allum, The Meaning of Life

Deiseil Airson Dannsa, Deiseil

Diona Doherty, GET YOUR PINK BACK

Dora Colquhoun, The Lodger

Ebdon Management, Joz Norris: You Wait. Time Passes.

Effectus Theatre, Sing, Sign and Sensory – On Safari

Elastic Fantastic, Shallowspace Cryotech Feverdream

Eleanor May Blackburn, A Sudden, Disturbing To-Do List

Eliza Kate Nelson, Sinnyworld

Emballage, The Writing of Stones

Emily Briggs, Garbanzo

Emily Davis, Escape the Rat Race

Emma Ruse Productions, Jumper Bumps

Emotionally Volatile Productions, Bluebeard’s Castle

Emul8 Theatre, Becoming Maverick

Fella, Show us ur fruitcake

Fiona Louise Moon, A Brief History of Neurodivergence

Fraser Penman, Penman – The Imagination – You!

Full Frontal Theatre LTD, Rodney Black: Who Cares? It’s Working

G+J Productions, Some Masterchef Sh*t

Genesis Theatre Productions, Lost Girls / At Bus Stops

Georgia Bruce, Attention

Ghouls Aloud, Elysium – a new ghost story with original music

Ginger Black Productions, Life Would be Pretty Dull Without Sex, Raves and MDMA

Giselle: Remix, Giselle: Remix

Grace Mulvey, Did you hear we are all going to die?

Grace Whitty, The last Oak Tree

Grey Castle Productions, Two Tribes

Grownup Playhouse, Milly’s Musical Adventure

Half Diamond Theatre, A Most Pressing Issue

Hasan Al-Habib, Death to the West Midlands

Hassan Govia, Because

Higgledy Piggledy Productions, PALS

Holly Gifford, Big Little Sister

Holly Redford-Jones, I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar

Holly Spillar, Holly Spillar: TALL CHILD

Hunter Millington, A Northern Tr*nny Hootenanny

In Bed With My Brother, PHILOSOPHY OF THE WORLD

Jack Brownridge-Kelly, Cold, Dark Matters

Jacob Nussey, Primed

James Clements, The Burns Project

Jessica Aszkenasy, TITCLOWN

Joe Sutherland, Joe Sutherland: Miss World

Julia Salkin/Serpentine Productions, were you in terror?

June Tuesday, June Tuesday: Comic Trans

Kane & Abel, Twin Feats

Kathy Maniura, Kathy Maniura: The Cycling Man

Katie Mitchell, Spine Hygiene

Katie Pritchard, Katie Pritchard: I Kiss The Music

Katy Baird, Get Off

Kayleigh Jones, I Fed My Dad to a Pelican

Keturah Peirson and Evelina Rudasa, Why Won’t They Eat The Cake?

Kie Carson, Silly & Starving

Kiren Virdee, Does Anyone Else Smell Curry?

Kumar Muniandy, Second Class Queer

Lachlan Werner, Lachlan Werner: WonderTwunk

Ladyblue Music, The Beauty of Bacharach

Laugh For Life Comedy, Behind the Laughter

Laura-Rose Layden, GREY

Lauren Talitha Ziebart, Sheepish

Liam Withnail, Liam Withnail – Trauma Dump No Lols

Liebenspiel, Bedlam Late

Little Seeds Music, Cinderella Ice Cream Seller

Lorna Rose Treen, Lorna Rose Treen: The Diner Show

Louisa Marshall, Clean Slate

Lucy Aphramor, Taking the Biscuit

Lucy Roslyn, Lovett

LULA.XYZ Ltd, I AM: A Walking Universe

Made You Look Productions, Lioness

Maria A L Zani, The Collective: Breaking Barriers at the Fringe

Maria Who?, Miss Brexit

Martha Pailing, Chat Sh*t, Get Hit

Jasmine Thien, I Dream in Colour

Maybe You Like It, Down to Chance

Mianoora Kosonen, Echoes of Finland: Rare Piano Gems by Sibelius, Madetoja & Palmgren

Michelle Burke, Mind How You Go

Mohit Mathur, Dial 1 for UK

Molly Farquhar, Hairy B*stard

Molly McGuinness, Slob

Moon Rabbit Theatre, Shirley: A Ghost Story

Moonbeam Theatre Ltd, Once Upon A Flowerbed

Moonstone Theatre Company, ENOUGH.

mr blue productions, Something Else

Narin Ozenci, Narin Oz (Inner Child(ish)

Nate Kitch, Nate Kitch: Something Different!!!!!

Nathan Cassidy, Nathan Cassidy: It’s Not The End Of The World

Niall Moorjani Storyteller, Kanpur: 1857

Northern Lights Theatre, The Sculpture

Orla Newmark, Orla Newmark and Will Hughes: Chef’s Treat (WIP)

Out Of The Forest Theatre Ltd, Bury The Hatchet

Ozzy Algar, Ozzy Algar: Speed Queen

Parky Players, Been There, Done That, Got The Symptoms

Passing Stranger Theatre Company, People We Bury Alive

Pedro Leandro, Soft Animal

Piers MacKenzie, COURIER

Pigs Fly LTD, E@sy Ryan

PINCHY theatre, FLITCH

Ray Productions & Big Sofa Theatre, Egg’s Aren’t That Easy To Make

Roarrr Theatre, Here Comes GuDong

Rodreguez King-Dorset, I am the Greatest!

Rosa Garland, Primal Bog

Saksi Bisou, Stampin’ in the Graveyard

Salt Circle Productions, Bea P. Deigh

Sam Nicoresti, Sam Nicoresti: Baby Doomer

Sam Williams, Touch Me Not

Samia Rida, Kidnap

scott turnbull presents, Scott Turnbull presents…Surreally Good

Seemia Theatre CIC, Saria Callas

Shahaf Beer, The Jewish Dog

Shalaka Kurup, Shalaka Kurup: Get a Grip

Short and Sweet Theatre, Milk On The Side: A Barista Musical

Shy Bairns, Shy Bairns Get Nowt

Siblings Comedy, Siblings

SkelpieLimmer, SHAME SHOW

SkelpieLimmer Productions, Anthem For Dissatisfaction

Slow Theatre Company, ALICE

Sufrecs Ltd, Sufrecs Presents: ‘Live Music and Chat: “A Kick Up The Arts” Live Podcast Event’ (working title)

Susan Riddell , Kopfkino

Tamsyn Kelly, Tamsyn Kelly Hot Titty Bungalow

TEAM Collective Cymru, Relay

The Biscuit Barrel, Biscuit Barrel: The 69-Sketch Show

The Crunch Collective, Nick it For Munich

The Harbourers Theatre, Harbouring

The Horgles, A Xerox of a Deer

Tigers, Not Daughters, Cara and Kelly are Best Friends Forever for Life

Tom Little, Tom Little Less Conversation, Tom Little More Action

Tomas McCabe, 1Date: The Dating Game Show

TRIADA theatre company, HER RAVING MIND

Uncaged Theatre, Love you, bye

Undone Theatre, The Butterfly Project

Unexpected Places, After Juliet

V Jay Theatre Productions, Streets Paved with Gold

Victoria Evaristo, Ma Joyce’s Tales from the Parlour

Victoria Firth, Batty!

Victoria Melody, Re-Enactment

wendy houstoun, Watch It!

Wilmas Productions, Mr Jones

Xhi Ndubisi, The Apologetics of Icarus

Youth Action Alliance, As We Face The Sun by Kit Withington

ASSESSORS 

28 assessors supported the Fringe Society in reviewing the applications received. Thanks to the following for their support in the fast turnaround of these awards.  

Alex Howarth, Artistic Director, Patch of Blue

Apphia Campbell, Writer / Performer

Ashley Davies, freelance Arts Journalist

Ben Humphrey, Artistic Director / Producer

Chris Cooke, Founder and Co-Editor of ThreeWeeks Edinburgh

Geoff Rowe, Founder Leicester Comedy Festival

Jake Orr, freelance Creative Producer

Jess Donn, Just Something Different LTD

Pax Lowey, Director: Actually Rather Good Comedy Festival, freelance Producer / Programmer, elected member of the Fringe Society board

Ruth McCarthy, Artistic Director / Outburst Arts

Sasapin Siriwanij, BIPAM Artistic Director

Sharon Burgess, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts

Linda Catalano, Creative Director and Executive Producer, Quiet Riot

Paloma Estevez, Director of Artistic Programming, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

Nqobile Dumo Mbhele, Artist Manager, National Arts Festival

Cat Sheridan, Senior Producer, We Are Unlimited

Rachel Clarke Hughes, Creative Director, The Playhouse, Derry~Londonderry

Stewart Pringle, Writer and Dramaturg

Richard Williamson, Lighting Designer / Production Manager

Murray Robertson, Arts Writer

Holly De Angelis, Development Producer

Saima Ferdows, freelance TV Producer

Ameena Hamid, Producer and General Manager

Zoe Paskett, Founder of LMAOnaise Comedy

Laura Rouxel, Head of UK Comedy for 800 Pound Gorilla Media

Aisling Galligan, Senior Events Producer and Programmer

Anonymous, Booker, Programmer 

Anonymous, Booker, Promoter, Producer

Keep it Fringe Fund Stats 2025Download

Trussell: Welfare and disability benefit cuts risk pushing even more people to food banks 

CHARITIES CALL FOR ESSENTIALS GUARANTEE

  • Almost one in five people receiving Universal Credit and disability benefits used a food bank in the last month
  • Hunger and hardship are already at record levels. Welfare and disability benefit cuts risk pushing even more people to the doors of food banks, says anti-poverty charity Trussell 
  • More than three quarters (77%) of people claiming Universal Credit and disability benefits have gone without essentials in the last six months. 
  • Just over four in ten (43%) people claiming Universal Credit and disability benefit have skipped meals to keep up with other essential costs in the last three months. 
  • The anti-poverty charity is urging the UK government not to cut welfare and disability benefits, which are already not enough to live on. 
  • Trussell is calling on the UK government to take steps towards an Essentials Guarantee in Universal Credit, so the basic rate at least always covers the cost of life’s essentials. 

Trussell has published new research that demonstrates the inadequacy of social security for disabled people across the UK.  

The research, conducted by YouGov on behalf of Trussell, reveals that almost one in five (19%) people receiving Universal Credit and disability benefits have used a food bank in the last month, while a shocking 77% have gone without essentials in the last six months. 

Just over four in ten (43%) people claiming Universal Credit and disability benefits have skipped meals to keep up with other essential costs in the last three months, while more than a third (37%) said they had not been able to keep their home warm enough this winter.

Meanwhile, a quarter (25%) of people in receipt of Universal Credit and disability benefits have had to choose between paying for heating/food, or getting a bed/bedding in the last three months.  

“I’m terrified the government will stop or cut disability benefits and if they do, I can’t bear to think of the outcome,” said one person in their survey response.  

Another person said: “It’s just going to get worse, my health will get worse. I won’t be able to renew my car insurance in March, or get an MOT this year. I think I’ll soon fall behind with gas and electric bills. If the government switch to a voucher scheme for disability payments, I’ll probably starve!” 

A quarter (25%) of people claiming Universal Credit and disability benefits have been unable to afford pain relief or other over the counter medication in the last three months. Four in ten (37%) participants were behind on bills, with 28% behind on gas or electricity in particular.  

Just over half (52%) of people claiming Universal Credit were pessimistic about their own financial situation over the next year. Additionally, 58% said the UK government is doing badly at improving living standards for people in their situation.  

Trussell is an anti-poverty charity and community of 1,400 food banks across the UK. Disabled people are overrepresented at food banks, as 75% of people referred to a food bank in the Trussell community said that they or a member of their household are disabled.  

To fulfil its long-term ambitions, Trussell says the UK government must take serious action to reduce hunger and hardship by investing in social security. Focusing on short term cuts will just push more people deeper into poverty and to hunger and hardship, and this will harm us all. 

Trussell has joined together with hundreds of communities, food banks and charities including the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, in calling on the UK government to create an Essentials Guarantee in Universal Credit, which means the basic rate at least cover’s life’s essentials and that support can never be pulled below that level.  

The majority of participants in the new survey agree, with 83% saying they would support an Essentials Guarantee. 

Sumi Rabindrakumar, head of policy and research at Trussell, said: “Trussell’s heartbreaking new findings show that Universal Credit and disability benefits are failing to cover the cost of living, with 77% of people receiving them having gone without the essentials in the last six months.

“Not only that, but one in five people have had to use a food bank. This should not be the case in one of the richest countries in the world. 

“We agree with the UK government that disability benefits urgently need reform. But balancing the books cannot come at the expense of people already having to survive on incredibly low incomes, and people with physical and mental ill health conditions.

“Our data shows that disabled people are far more likely to need support from a food bank, which likely reflects that life costs more for disabled people, with additional costs like therapies, treatments, specialist kit to help with day-to-day activities and paid care to think about on top of food, bills and toiletries. 

“Welfare and disability benefit cuts risk pushing even more people to the doors of food banks. Many disabled people are terrified of the prospect of cuts to disability benefits, which are already not enough to live on.

“If the UK government is committed to its promise to end the need for emergency food, it must address underlying barriers to work and flaws in our social security system. It must also commit to creating an Essentials Guarantee which would ensure everyone can at the very least afford the essentials we all need, such as food, bills and toiletries- not whip away lifelines from people who need them most.” 

Bosses urged to do more to support neurodiverse staff

Report shows staff turnover reduced by proactive support

New research published today by workplace expert Acas, highlights the importance of training and proactive action to support neurodiverse staff.

Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains process information, and how they feel and behave. Well-known types of neurodivergence include neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

The report emphasises the importance of training and supporting managers, so they know how to treat and support their neurodivergent staff.

The research shows that creating inclusive environments and personalised adjustments can be achieved proactively, without the need for a formal diagnosis or staff disclosure.

Acas Interim Chief Executive Dan Ellis said: “It is estimated that between 15-20% of UK adults are neurodivergent. This is a potentially enormous number of workers who may not be getting the support they need.

“Our research outlines the urgent need to put support for neurodivergent people at the heart of workplace policies and training, and the huge benefits for businesses when that happens.

“Taking steps to support neurodivergent staff is often quick, easy and inexpensive, but the advantages can be widespread. We encourage employers to make sure they do everything they can to support their staff.”

The independent research was conducted by Birkbeck, University of London, for Acas. The researchers combined insights from experts working in neuroinclusion, in depth case studies and a summary of published evidence.

The research found that neuroinclusion is possible in all workplaces, whether large or small.

The research documents good practice including how to manage performance in neurodiverse teams and the benefit of small changes, such as accessible written materials.

The research found that one small business which is incorporating neuroinclusion proactively, reduced its staff turnover to 8%, against a national average of 34%.

The report found that:

·       Proactively supporting neurodivergent staff and creating inclusive work environments where neurodivergent talents are supported can benefit everyone at work.

·       Mandatory and regularly updated neurodiversity training is key to promoting inclusive workplaces.

·       Line managers are pivotal in supporting neurodivergent employees so it’s vital they have the necessary training to facilitate inclusion.

·       Being proactive in making reasonable adjustments shouldn’t require a diagnosis or formal disclosure from staff.

·       Specialised adjustments may require balancing of individual and organisational needs. Smaller businesses with limited resources may find external support from organisations like Acas useful.

Professor Almuth McDowall at Birkbeck, University of London leads a research centre dedicated to supporting neurodivergent talent. She said: “It was a privilege to learn from our participants and share good practice. It is very important that neuroinclusion is part of wider conversations about workplace equity and inclusion.

“Conversations about adjustments should focus on performance optimisation to harness neurodivergent talent. Simple and centralised processes are important to reduce the burden on managers.

“Our case studies show that good practice can reduce turnover to as low as 8%. Organisations should set themselves clear targets for neuroinclusion and monitor and publish data.”

The report also shows that some workplaces are taking an innovative approach to neuroinclusion.

Jodie Hill is Managing Partner at Thrive Law, a business that prioritises inclusion and support for its neurodivergent staff. She said:  “The benefits of introducing reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent staff at Thrive has been overwhelming, particularly for me as a neurodivergent leader.

“Having the adjustments in place not only helps me, but it helps my team, and my clients, understand my needs.

“By creating a neurodiverse workplace, we create a competitive advantage and a workplace that has cognitive differences. We support people’s strengths and create an environment where those individuals can thrive.”

A full copy of the report can be viewed online https://www.acas.org.uk/research-and-commentary/neurodiversity-at-work-research-practice-and-policy

Interested in a career in banking?

Looking for a career in banking? 🏦

Join us for a session with TSB Bank professionals!

Gain valuable insights on CV writing, interview skills, personal branding, and explore career opportunities at TSB.

– Date: Friday, 7th March 2025

– Time: 14:00-15:00

– Location: ELREC, 14 Forth Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3LH

If interested, please register by emailing mrostami@elrec.org.uk.

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Utilita Energy Hub supports campaign to save Pilmeny Development Project

High street hub welcomes PDP committee members to its free Community Room – and don’t miss your chance to win this month’s hub raffle prizes

Natasha Baillie, Supervisor at the Leith Energy Hub, and her dedicated team are looking forward to welcoming the Pilmeny Development Project (PDP) management committee members to the hub’s Community Room on Friday, 7 March. 

PDP is facing a loss of funding which will mean closure of its services to socially isolated older people in Leith Walk, Leith Wards and North East Edinburgh.

The Utilita Hub’s Energy Experts have worked with the PDP for several years, ever since they began using the Community Room to help those being digitally excluded during the pandemic.

Keen to encourage others to make use of the hub’s facilities, Natasha said: “Our Community Room provides local groups and charities with a free and safe space for them to hold meetings or community events – with complimentary WiFi and refreshments available. 

“Whilst we fully appreciate that times are tough and that difficult funding decisions have to be made, we also recognise the important work that Pilmeny Development Project does to protect vulnerable, local, older people. Our shared aim of helping the local community makes using the Community Room an obvious venue choice for PDP.

“Whether you’re running a literacy class, a knitting circle, or gathering for a community event, please do get in touch to find out more about the hub’s meeting room facilities.”

Tackling food and fuel poverty

Hub visitors will have the chance to enter this month’s Utilita Leith Energy Hub’s Kids and Adults prize raffles – with the prize winners being revealed on Red Nose Day (Friday, 21 March).  This year’s Red Nose Day event will focus on supporting those in need during the current cost of living crisis, shining a spotlight on issues like food and fuel poverty.

Utilita’s charitable partner, Utilita Giving, is dedicated to alleviating and preventing the hardship caused by fuel and food poverty while raising public awareness about this critical issue.

Natasha added: “We would like to wish all our hub visitors good luck in this month’s Kids and Adults prize raffles – by taking part you’ll be helping us to raise awareness of food and fuel poverty. 

“The Kids prize hamper includes toys, Teddy Bears, sweets, as well as art and craft items. The prize up for grabs by their grown-ups is a 3.5L slow cooker, with a packet of slow cooker liners.

“There’s also a Tombola coming soon, so be sure to visit the Leith Energy Hub for your chance to win craft goods, chocolates and gift sets.”

Open to all

Utilita Energy Hubs are high street locations where customers can top up their accounts, check their balances, and get energy-saving advice – based not just in Edinburgh but also Gosport, Southampton, Isle of Wight, Luton, Derby, West Bromwich, Sheffield, Leicester, Blackburn, Huddersfield and Hartlepool.

The Utilita Leith Energy Hub is open from Monday to Saturday at 41 Newkirkgate, Edinburgh, EH6 6AA. See more on Utilita Energy Hubs at https://utilita.co.uk/energy-hub.

Swinney: Securing the future of an independent Ukraine

First Minister commits to international solidarity

First Minister John Swinney has pledged the support of the Scottish Government to “securing international solidarity” for the long-term future of an independent Ukraine.

Addressing the Scottish Parliament, he condemned Russia’s illegal, full-scale invasion and the subsequent three years of “barbaric” aggression that have followed, while commending Ukraine’s people for their fight to defend the independence, territorial integrity and security of their country.

Mr Swinney said that providing support and sanctuary for displaced Ukrainians continues to be a priority for the Scottish Government.

The First Minister warned that pausing military aid “can only run the risk of emboldening Russia”, stressing the United States must remain “steadfast” in its support for Ukraine alongside the United Kingdom Government, European allies and partners across the wider western world. He also accepted the case for peacekeeping forces to avert further conflict, subject to proper democratic scrutiny.

The First Minister said: “Right now, today, as we stand here, men, women and children in Ukraine are putting their lives and their freedom on the line to defend their country and all of our democracies.

“My hope is that US and European leaders can once again find a way to speak with one voice on the matter of this conflict. There are no grey areas when one country chooses to send troops and tanks into the peaceful territory of another.

“My Government supports the approach of the United Kingdom Government, in committing to secure international solidarity in support of Ukraine’s long-term future. My Government remains committed to supporting Ukraine, until a just peace is secured – not a peace at any cost, which strips Ukraine of her sovereignty in wartime.

“Scotland’s approach, internationally, will continue to be led and guided by our compassion for Ukraine. Now, 25 years into the life of this modern Parliament, Scotland chooses to stand for democracy, for human rights and the rule of law, at home and among our courageous allies like Ukraine.

“These are the underpinnings of democracy, of prosperity, and of every freedom democracy provides. This is the solidarity among allies that will deliver Ukraine from Russia’s barbaric aggression, while protecting her heritage, her culture, and her social and economic future.

“Ukraine’s future, and her fate, is our future and our fate.”

International solidarity to support Ukraine: First Minister’s statement – 4 March 2025 – gov.scot