Foysol Choudhury MSP visited Kids Operating Room in Edinburgh last week to see first-hand the charity’s pioneering work improving access to safe surgery for children globally.
During the visit, the MSP met with Project Manager Kristyna A. Rycovska and members of the Kids Operating Room team to discuss the urgent global need for paediatric surgical care and the role Scotland can play in addressing this challenge. Millions of children worldwide still cannot access the operations they need, leading to preventable deaths or lifelong disability.
Kids Operating Room, a Scottish global health charity dedicated exclusively to children’s surgery, works with partners across Africa, South Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean to design, build and equip dedicated paediatric operating rooms in low-resource settings.
The charity also trains local surgical teams and supports biomedical engineers to maintain vital medical equipment.
To date, the organisation’s work spans 38 countries, with 125 dedicated paediatric operating rooms, creating capacity for more than 780,000 surgical procedures for children who would otherwise struggle to access life-saving care.
In Scotland, in addition to its Edinburgh office and Glasgow headquarters, Kids Operating Room also has a presence in Dundee, where the organisation supports biomedical engineering and the preparation of equipment for operating rooms deployed internationally.
This facility plays an important role in ensuring that surgical equipment is ready for use in partner hospitals.
Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “It was inspiring to visit Kids Operating Room and see the incredible impact this Scottish charity is having around the world.
“No child should be denied life-saving surgery simply because of where they are born. Their work shows how Scottish expertise and commitment are helping give children the chance to grow, thrive and reach their full potential.”
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT TEAMS UP WITH BLACK SCOTTISH ADVENTURERS FOUNDER TO HIGHLIGHT MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF THE OUTDOORS
The Scottish Government has announced a new collaboration with Joshua Adeyemi, founder of Black Scottish Adventurers.
The partnership comes as part of the nationwide Mind to Mind campaign which aims to help normalise conversations about mental health and share practical strategies for coping with life’s pressures.
The campaign sees a striking new sign installed at Edinburgh’s Haymarket Station featuring Josh’s words: “Out here, you’re enough”, intended to share a note of support that reflects the spirit of the Black Scottish Adventurers community and to spark conversations about mental wellbeing.
Research from See Me, Scotland’s programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination, explains that more than a quarter of people in Scotland believe it’s easier to avoid discussing mental health than risk an awkward conversation. One in five say fear of judgment stops them from speaking openly.
The Mind to Mind platform offers free, accessible guidance covering topics such as anxiety, grief, stress, loneliness, and financial worries. Visitors can explore personal stories, expert insights, and links to further help – all designed to be used at a pace that suits them.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Josh said: “Finding a community of like-minded individuals where I can talk about life struggles and be my authentic self has been so important on my journey towards understanding how to look after my mental wellbeing.
“The message says exactly what I hope people feel: Whilst being outdoors can’t fix everything, spending time amongst friendly faces, surrounded by Scotland’s awe-inspiring scenery is powerful, and I’ve seen how it helps lift people’s spirits to keep moving forward.
“Working with Mind to Mind has been brilliant as they offer so many resources available to everyone to help navigate the tougher moments in life.”
Josh noted that placing the sign in Edinburgh holds deep personal meaning as this is where Black Scottish Adventurers originated and where he currently lives. He hopes it inspires people to see nature as restorative and stresses that enjoying the outdoors can be as simple as listening to the birds in the park. In collaboration with Mind to Mind, Josh encourages others to access the website to discover the mental health support available.
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing, Tom Arthur MSP, said: “Mind to Mind is dedicated to ensuring that everyone in Scotland can access mental health strategies and support tailored to their needs.
“Josh’s commitment to inclusive outdoor experiences brings a fresh perspective to the campaign, helping to engage communities and encourage open conversations about mental health.
“Together with Mind to Mind, these efforts aim to empower individuals to take meaningful steps toward wellbeing.”
If you’re going through a difficult time, you are not alone.
Charities across Edinburgh entered the new year facing a complex operating environment, as Scottish Charity Register data reveals more organisations were removed from the register last year than were newly established.
According to the register, 101 charities were registered in Edinburgh during 2025, while 122 were removed from the register.
Removal from the register can include mergers or charities completing their purpose, but the figures highlight the ongoing pressures within the voluntary sector as organisations adapt to rising costs, regulatory demands and changing funding patterns.
This local picture mirrors UK trends. The Status of UK Fundraising 2025 report found that 54% of UK charities saw their fundraising income remain static or fall over the past year, with a substantial majority attributing this to wider economic conditions. While income is not universally declining, many organisations are having to work harder to maintain stability.
Ansvar Insurance, a specialist insurer for charities and not‑for‑profit organisations, says the challenge is less about short-term survival and more about long-term sustainability.
Photo of a group of friends studying together at home
Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, commented: “Edinburgh has always had an incredibly active charity sector, but these figures show just how challenging the current environment has become.
“Rising operational costs, a more competitive fundraising landscape and increased demand with an average of 27% of Edinburgh residents relying on charitable services mean organisations need to think differently about sustainability.”
To help local organisations strengthen their resilience, Ansvar is encouraging charities to explore less obvious strategies that can make a meaningful difference:
Build practical partnerships: Formal partnerships with organisations serving similar beneficiaries can reduce overheads through shared back-office functions, joint fundraising and collaborative grant bids, while strengthening funding applications.
Focus on long-term supporter relationships: Nurturing existing supporters through regular updates and consistent storytelling can help convert into monthly giving, providing greater stability than one-off donations.
Review insurance and risk exposure: A risk assessment can highlight duplicated cover or gaps in protection. As services evolve, charities should ensure their insurance reflects current activities to avoid unnecessary costs or unexpected exposures.
Despite the pressures, the registration of new charities in Edinburgh during 2025 demonstrates the commitment of local communities to addressing social need.
Adam Tier added: “Financial sustainability isn’t just about raising more money. Often, it’s about taking a fresh look at existing processes and asking the right questions.
“The organisations that thrive are those that plan ahead, understand their risks and adapt early, positioning themselves to weather these challenges and continue serving their communities for years to come.”
£126 million of support confirmed for family members such as grandparents, aunts and uncles who care for relatives’ children in new pilot scheme
Thousands of children living in kinship care are set to benefit from earlier, more consistent support as the government today announces seven new Kinship Zones across England.
Kinship carers are adults who step in to provide a loving and supportive home to children in their family whose parents are unable to care for them full-time for a wide range of reasons. They are often grandparents, aunts, uncles or family friends.
These children have often experienced trauma and might otherwise end up in the care system, where outcomes in areas like education and health are significantly worse.
Currently, kinship carers do not receive consistent financial support, unlike foster carers and adoptive families. This is despite the fact that kinship care is shown to lead to better outcomes the residential care homes, with a 2021 report by University College London showing lower rates of long term illness and higher rates of employment for adults with a history of kinship care compared to those that grew up in foster or residential care
The government is now trialling a financial allowance to eligible kinship carers, backed by £126 million to reach around 5,000 children, recognising the vital role carers play in the lives of their vulnerable children.
This starts with a pilot in the seven local authority area Kinship Zones announced today, with kinship carers to be provided with funding per child, equivalent to what foster carers receive.
Minister for Children and Families, Josh MacAlister, said: “As a country we owe kinship carers our thanks and our support, and the new financial allowance which we’re trialling as part of our plan for change recognises the vital role they play ensuring families can stay together.
“We promised to introduce this scheme to support kinship carers who step up for the children they love and give every child the best possible start in life.
“These Kinship Zones will lead the way in showing the impact for children when we unlock the power of grandparents, aunts, uncles and other relatives who could care for their kin in the place of the care system.”
Dr Jo Casebourne, Chief Executive of Foundations, said: Kinship carers play a vital role in helping to ensure that children can stay safely looked after in their family networks.
“That’s why we’re pleased to undertake the evaluation of the kinship financial allowances pilot announced today, to help to build the evidence base and shape future support for kinship carers and the children they care for.”
Jahnine Davies, National Kinship Care Ambassador, said : “The launch of the Kinship Zones pilot marks an important milestone for kinship carers and the children they care for. For the first time, we have a government‑led initiative that will not only examine how best to provide financial support for kinship families but will also encourage local authorities to look holistically at the support they offer and adopt a genuine ‘think family’ approach.
“Alongside this, my report, also published today, sets out key learning in this area, and I hope it will be a valuable resource for all local authorities as they review and strengthen their approach to kinship care.
“I look forward to working with the Kinship Zones and celebrating the launch of this vital pilot.”
Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza said : “Kinship carers provide stability and love during moments of significant upheaval in a child’s life – their value often goes under-acknowledged, but the commitment they offer can be transformative.
“The overwhelming majority of children in kinship care who I have spoken to as Children’s Commissioner tell me they feel loved and cared for, a true testament to the unique bonds formed during kinship care.
“I have called for kinship carers to be given a financial allowance that supports the transition into these new living arrangements – so I am grateful to the government for listening and taking this important first step.”
Cathy Ashley OBE, Chief Executive of Family Rights Group said: “All children should be raised safely in their family wherever possible. Kinship carers step in, often at a moment’s notice, to make that happen.
“They often save the state thousands in care costs but many face real financial hardship in doing so. The pilot is taking a groundbreaking step which will make a difference to 4,500 children and their families in seven areas.
“In the meantime, as all local authorities develop their kinship local offer, this is a critical moment for national and local government to go further to build a fair, effective support system for all kinship families.”
James Bury, Head of Policy, Research and Development at CoramBAAF, said: “This is an encouraging and positive important announcement for kinship carers and CoramBAAF welcomes the launch of the financial allowances pilot.
“This important initiative will provide much needed financial support to kinship families in seven local authorities.
“Through our work supporting practice and hearing directly from families, we know the challenges that kinship carers can face, as well as the challenges facing local authorities in providing consistent and fair financial support.
“We look forward to seeing the impact of the pilots and look forward to this potentially leading to a wider roll-out to enable families across the country to benefit.”
Lucy Peake, Chief Executive of Kinship said: “Today’s announcement is an important first step towards ensuring kinship families have the financial support they need to provide children with stable, loving homes.
“A guaranteed allowance equal to the foster care allowance will be life‑changing for kinship carers in the local authority areas where this is being piloted, many of whom struggle to afford the basics for the children they have unexpectedly stepped in to raise.
“Following years of campaigning alongside kinship carers, we’re pleased the government has recognised the current system is inequitable and is putting a huge strain on kinship families, pushing many into poverty. Providing financial support to kinship families and investing in family networks will help children stay safely with those who love them, and reduce the need for more costly options in the care system.
“Kinship carers hold our care system together, and they deserve the right support to continue doing so.”
This ambitious pilot programme – the largest government investment in kinship care of its kind to date – will support around 5,000 kinship children, backed by over £126 million of new funding confirmed for the first two years with further funding to be confirmed in the next Spending Review period.
The pilot will run for up to three and a half years, with further expansion to be confirmed after evaluation.
The seven confirmed Kinship Zone local authorities are:
Bexley (Greater London)
Bolton (North West)
Newcastle (North East)
North East Lincolnshire (East Midlands)
Medway (South East)
Thurrock (East of England)
Wiltshire (South West)
Each Kinship Zone will receive a package of funding and support, enabling local authorities to tailor delivery to local needs. Money saved by local authorities thanks to central government pilot funding will be redirected to other support schemes for family networks.
The seven local authority areas were chosen following a selection process last June. Together, they offer a useful mix of geography, demographics, and service models. This was intentional: the pilot is designed to test what works at scale in varied local contexts, so robust learning can be generated for future decisions.
Some councils offer support to kinship carers, but it can vary greatly. The Kinship Zones programme will enable the DfE and participating councils to work out how best to deliver financial support to kinship carers across the country and how it should be delivered in future.
The ultimate goal is to support more children to grow up within their family networks, avoiding care. The children’s care organisation Foundations, working in partnership with consultancy Alma Economics, will track outcomes for carers and children throughout the pilot to inform future decisions.
The Department for Education will publish findings from the programme to ensure transparency about what works and how support can be strengthened nationwide.
The Kinship Zones programme marks a significant step forward in ensuring they receive the right help at the right time, while building a strong evidence base to shape future national policy.
Survey shows stigma could be holding people back from seeking support
People may be missing out on social security support they are entitled to due to stigma around social security, new research shows.
Independent research commissioned by Social Security Scotland found that while nine in ten (91%) people agree anyone could need financial support when their circumstances change – four in ten (39%) say applying would make them feel less positive about themselves. This rises to almost half (48%) among 16 to 34-year-olds.
The survey also shows how negative portrayals could be fuelling this. Three quarters (75%) of people believe those who receive social security support are portrayed negatively by politicians and/or the media. Almost four in ten (39%) of people surveyed agreed people who receive social security are judged negatively by their family and friends.
Social Justice Secretary @S_A_Somerville visited Townhead Village Hall today to speak with @PovertyAlliance, @GDA__online and clients about the impact of stigma, social security and what this means to them.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Everyone should be able to access support without fear or shame, and these findings reinforce why we are delivering social security differently in Scotland — through a system rooted in dignity, fairness and respect.
“From the language we use to how we deliver our services – we designed our social security system based on feedback from people with lived experience. This has included using more compassionate language in letters, providing help in a format or language that best suits the individual and offering help with applications online, over the phone and in person. We all share responsibility for talking about social security with kindness – words matter.
“We’ll continue to work with clients and stakeholders to make further improvements and help break down the barriers that stop too many people getting the help they are entitled to.”
David Reilly, Communities and Networks Manager at Poverty Alliance added: “Our social security is a public good like the NHS – it’s there for everybody, especially those who need it most.
“There are 1.1 million people in Scotland who are struggling today on a low income – they have the same right to thrive as everybody else.
“But prejudice and negative stereotypes, often starting in our media and politics, then trickling down into our own communities and families – this unfair judgement can hold people back from reaching out and claiming what they’re entitled to – sometimes to the point of starvation and destitution. That’s simply wrong.
“Together, we can stand up for each other and reclaim the idea of social security as a basic human right, and a foundation that allows people to build better futures for themselves and their households.”
Stigma around benefits is still a barrier for many people across Scotland.
Julie shares her experience of accessing support for her family and why challenging stigma matters.
Karen Wylie, Policy and Participation Manager at Glasgow Disability Alliance (GDA) added: “GDA hears from our members that disability benefits are a lifeline not a luxury for disabled people.
“In our survey conducted in October 2025, we heard that stigma played a significant, prohibitive role in how and when people apply for benefits.
“Our members call for a change in narrative around social security so that it’s seen as a human right that not only covers the basics but also covers the additional costs of being disabled and enables people to live full and participative lives with choice and control.”
Campaign highlights free, confidential support for families facing money worries
A Scottish Government Parent Club campaign is supporting parents and carers in Edinburgh to access free, trusted advice on employment, managing household costs, and applying for benefits.
The campaign recognises that money worries can feel overwhelming, particularly for parents balancing work and caring responsibilities. It aims to remove stigma by encouraging families to take the first step to seek support through Parent Club and connect with local services offering tailored, confidential advice.
Emma Jackson from Citizens Advice Scotland, which is supporting the campaign said: “We know that many families in Edinburgh are under real financial pressure at the moment and we also know that asking for help isn’t always easy. With this campaign we want to take the stress and worry out of finding help, and guide parents every step of the way.
“Because help is available — the local Citizens Advice Bureau and other partner organisations are ready to give you the free, confidential support and advice you need for your family, whether that’s online, over the phone or in person.
“We can help you to review your spending, manage any debt, or make sure you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to — without putting your current support at risk. You can also get advice on finding work that fits around your family or boosts your income.
“If you’re feeling worried or unsure where to start, Parent Club is a good first step to find information and support that’s right for you and your family.”
For parents looking to find work or increase earnings, Parent Club makes it easy to find support, from job searching and interview tips to finding affordable childcare that fits around your family, training opportunities and improving your CV.
The campaign forms part of a wider package of measures announced recently by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes to tackle economic inactivity and support parents into work.
Funding of £90 million in the draft Scottish Budget for 2026-27 is expected to help up to 7,500 people furthest from the labour market into work, with thousands more benefiting from qualifications and training. This includes a £40 million package focused on supporting parents most at risk of poverty into jobs and training opportunities.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes commented: “Our employability services are helping people into work who may otherwise face barriers to employment due to factors such as illness, disability or simply taking time out to have a family.
“the involvement of major employers and a wide range of partners delivering support across Scotland, we are building people’s confidence and providing access to new skills.
“Tackling economic inactivity is a win-win situation – it boosts the economy and tackles child poverty by providing families with a secure income – and our £90 million Budget commitment will enable more people to access employment support.”
Parent Club is the Scottish Government’s online support hub for parents and carers, offering trusted advice and helping families connect with local services. You can get more information about support with money and employment at: parentclub.scot/money-work
We’re reaching out with a feel good community story we hope you’ll help us share:
At LIFT – Low Income Families Together, based at Muirhouse Millennium Centre, we are preparing for our Easter celebration taking place on Friday 3rd April, and we need the support of our amazing local businesses and community.
Every year, we support families across Edinburgh who are facing incredibly tough circumstances. For many of the children attending our Easter event, an Easter egg isn’t just chocolate, it’s a moment of joy, a sense of belonging, and a reminder that their community cares.
This year, we are inviting local businesses to be part of something truly special by donating:
Easter eggs Easter-themed gifts or treats Vouchers or small prizes for our event Baking or party food Monetary donations to help us purchase eggs and supplies
Our Easter event on 3rd April will bring families together for a day filled with fun, smiles, and celebration — and with the right support, we can ensure every child leaves with something special.
We would be so grateful if you could help us spread the word and encourage local businesses to step forward. We are also happy to acknowledge and publicly thank businesses who support the event.
Donations can be dropped off at:
LIFT – Low Income Families Together Muirhouse Millennium Centre 7 Muirhouse Medway Edinburgh EH4 4RW
Funding for broadcasting, education and cultural projects
A £620,000 package to support the continued growth of the Gaelic language has been announced by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes on the first day of World Gaelic Week.
The funding includes an additional £200,000 for MG ALBA (the Gaelic media service) to deliver high-quality content including series two of BBC ALBA’s award-winning crime thriller An t-Eilean.
Independent research has found that Gaelic media generates £1.34 for every £1 invested and supports 340 jobs across Scotland, including 160 in island communities.
The new funding will also support ongoing work to establish the first dedicated Gaelic cultural centre in the Highlands and structural improvements at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig – the world’s only Gaelic-medium college on the Isle of Skye.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “This year’s World Gaelic Week is particularly special, being the first since Gaelic gained official status through the Scottish Languages Act.
“This new investment will help the language thrive, from broadcasting that brings Gaelic to new audiences to education initiatives that help more people learn it.
Watch Deputy First Minister @_KateForbes welcome #WorldGaelicWeek – the first since Gaelic gained official status.
The Scottish Government is supporting Gaelic's continued growth with an extra £1.8 million in the draft Scottish Budget.
“An t-Eilean’s success demonstrates there is a global appetite for high-quality Gaelic content. The programme has brought Gaelic into living rooms around the world and this funding will ensure the communities and talent behind that success continue to flourish.”
Sorcha Groundsell, who will return in series two of An t-Eilean in the lead role of Detective Sergeant Kat Crichton, said: ‘’I’m so pleased that An t-Eilean has been recommissioned for a second season.
“It was a wonderful and deeply fulfilling experience to be a part of season one and I have every faith the team will build on the work they did and that they will take the show to new heights and even broader audiences.
“It’s so important that we continue to platform Gàidhlig and to provide further opportunities for Gael creatives so that we can reinforce the language as a vital and vibrant force on the global cultural stage. I’m looking forward to picking up Kat’s journey and seeing where the show takes her in this next series!’’
The First Minister is expected to unveil the Scottish Government’s Islands Plan in Shetland later today. The plan includes measures to support Gaelic’s growth in island communities where it is traditionally spoken.
Jobseekers are to benefit from the roll-out of mobile jobs vans across Great Britain – outside leisure centres, supermarkets and even football stadiums
New vans rolling out to six additional areas across England and Wales as part of major employment reforms.
Jobcentre on Wheels service puts expert support at heart of the local community – slashing barriers by coming directly to people while they do their weekly shop or see their local team play football.
Roll out is part of wider government plans to Get Britain Working and comes after successful pilot saw over 1,600 people supported.
Jobseekers are to benefit from the roll-out of mobile jobs vans across Great Britain – appearing outside leisure centres, supermarkets and even football stadiums.
Following hugely successful pilots in the Scottish Highlands, North and Mid Wales and Greater Manchester, the number of Jobcentres on Wheels will triple, providing enhanced support in six new areas, with a view to explore rolling out the scheme more extensively after testing its impact.
The vans will take jobcentre staff on the road to communities with some of the highest rates of unemployment where support is needed most. Vans will park up outside family hubs, leisure centres, supermarkets, local events and football matches to make taking that first step towards work as easy as possible.
Once on board, people can meet with one of the DWP’s experienced work coaches who will who offer expert support with job searching and training opportunities.
They can also provide information to those with health conditions or disabilities and for accessing childcare costs.
As well as existing customers, the service is open and accessible to all members of the public and forms part of the government’s wider plans to Get Britain Working, kickstart economic growth and give more opportunities for people to get on in their career.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “We want to break down the barriers that stop people from finding good work, and that means meeting people where they are.
“Jobcentres on Wheels are doing exactly that – bringing employment support into the heart of communities.
“That’s why we’re building on the success we’ve already seen, expanding the service so we can unlock opportunities for even more people across the country.”
The areas the vans will now be extended to are Wakefield, North Nottinghamshire, Barrow-in-Furness, Blackpool, Clevedon and Rhondda Cynon Taf/Bridgend.
To mark the roll out, Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden visited the Bolton Mobile Jobcentre which was stationed outside Horwich Leisure Centre.
The Bolton Mobile Jobcentre, which was first launched in January 2025 has already supported nearly 800 customers – many of whom had never set foot into a jobcentre. Bolton has one of the highest inactivity rates in the North West, at 29.2% compared to the national average of 20.8%.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden hopped on our mobile Jobcentre to Bolton
Onboard, Work Coaches offer support and advice to the community – helping break down barriers to good work
It has parked in a range of spaces including Bolton Wanderers’ football stadium on match days, Horwich Leisure Centre, family hubs and community centres, reaching those who might not otherwise access a traditional Jobcentre.
Data shows that just over half of customers visiting the vans are not in receipt of benefits, demonstrating the service is reaching many economically inactive people who may not engage with traditional jobcentres.
For example, in Bolton, a customer with health conditions walked onto the van looking for work. Within one visit, staff found him job leads, referred him to digital support, and connected him with training. The customer said this support was something he would never have thought to look for at a traditional Jobcentre.
Ben Lawton, CEO of Bolton Wanderers in the Community, said: “Here at BWitC we understand the drivers behind the increase in the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).
“The relational, holistic, community-based support delivered in trusted settings support those in our community facing these challenges.
“Working alongside Bolton Jobcentre and their Jobcentre Van is key to our Vision of One Bolton Connected in Success.”
The mobile Jobcentres will now operate in nine areas across England, Scotland and Wales, covering a mix of urban, rural, coastal and post-industrial communities. Trebling the Department’s mobile fleet will ensure the service reaches those who may face barriers accessing traditional jobcentres across Great Britain as a whole.
The initiative is part of the government’s commitment to reforming employment services and helping more people overcome barriers to work, including health conditions and caring responsibilities.
It is part of a major programme of reform as a test and learn approach which includes transforming Jobcentres and creating a new national jobs and careers service, backed by £55m as well as launching a new digital offer to deliver a transformative new service that will give anyone access to DWP support wherever they are.
Easter eggs
