Ishan Crawford

Scotland is experiencing an unexpected taste of summer, with temperatures soaring to 20°C in some areas, matching the warmth of Barcelona. The clear skies and sunny conditions have been a welcome change, particularly in the eastern regions, where many are enjoying a break from the usual chill. "It's been a rare treat," said a local meteorologist. "Some eastern parts of Scotland are clinging on to some decent, bright weather. We could see temperatures rising quite nicely there." The unseasonably warm weather has caught many by surprise, with sunbathers and tourists making the most of the sunny spell. A Warm Spell…

As Scotland faces increasing environmental pressures, conservationists are warning that a lack of long-term funding may jeopardize efforts to restore and protect its most vital ecosystems. From regenerative farming to the revival of Scotland’s unique rainforests, these initiatives are in a race against time to meet ambitious conservation goals. A Growing Challenge in the Scottish Highlands Scotland’s Highlands, home to some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, are facing significant challenges. Conservationists in the region say that local communities working to restore ecosystems are struggling with both depopulation and a severe lack of sustainable funding. Despite these challenges, more and…

The Scottish Government has unveiled its Circular Economy and Waste Route Map to 2030, setting a clear roadmap for transitioning to a circular economy. This comprehensive plan outlines 11 priority actions and implementation timelines aimed at waste reduction, recycling modernisation, and sustainable resource management. These efforts directly support the Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024, passed earlier this year. Key Highlights of the Circular Economy Route Map The Route Map, developed after consultations in 2022 and early 2024, focuses on four strategic aims: Reduce and Reuse: Promoting sustainable consumption and resource efficiency. Modernise Recycling: Enhancing recycling systems and services. Decarbonise Disposal:…

In a heartfelt speech on Sunday, September 29, 2024, King Charles III opened up about his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II’s profound connection to Scotland, particularly Balmoral Castle, where she spent her final days. Speaking to the Scottish Parliament on its 25th anniversary, Charles shared how Scotland, and specifically the estate, held a special place in Queen Elizabeth's heart. A Legacy of Love for Scotland King Charles, joined by Queen Camilla, expressed how Scotland had always been central to his family’s history, remarking that his “beloved grandmother was proudly Scottish.” However, it was Balmoral, nestled in the Scottish Highlands, that…

Exclusive by Hannah Brown, Political Correspondent A growing financial burden is threatening to force Afghan women studying in Scotland, particularly medical students, out of their education. The rise in visa and associated costs has led to a crisis for these students, some of whom are already struggling to meet the hefty financial demands required to continue their studies in the UK. A Call for UK Government Action The Scottish Government has intervened in response to the challenges faced by these students. Scottish Government Minister Jenny Gilruth has written to UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman, urging the UK government to reimburse…

Scotland has implemented a ban on the use of WhatsApp and other non-corporate messaging apps on government phones, following a review sparked by the UK's COVID inquiry. This decision aims to ensure that government business is conducted through secure and accountable communication channels. The Ban and Its Implications The new policy, announced on Tuesday by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, comes after an external review commissioned by former First Minister Humza Yousaf. As part of the initiative, not only WhatsApp but all non-corporate mobile messaging applications will be removed from official devices by next spring. Forbes explained that government communication…

A leading psychotherapy clinic in Edinburgh has expanded its team to respond to the increasing demand for high-quality mental health services. The Anchor Practice, now with 13 clinicians, has become the largest private psychotherapy practice of its kind in Scotland. This growth aims to address the pressing mental health crisis affecting communities, especially the complex needs of young people and families. Strengthening Expertise with New Clinicians The Anchor Practice, located in Edinburgh's New Town, has welcomed four highly experienced clinicians to bolster its team. These new appointments will further enhance the clinic’s offering in psychodynamic psychotherapy and clinical psychology, providing…

Scotland has reached a significant demographic milestone: the number of centenarians has now soared to 1,000. This marks a notable shift in the nation’s age profile, highlighting the broader trend of an ageing population. Alongside this, the number of Scots aged 90 and above has also reached record highs, sparking important conversations about the challenges and contributions of an older demographic. A Surge in Scotland's Older Population According to the latest data from the National Records of Scotland (NRS), released in June 2023, there are now 45,550 Scots aged 90 or older. This marks an increase of over 20% in…

On December 16, 2014, Scotland passed the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act, marking a historic moment for equality. This legislation allowed same-sex couples to marry for the first time, bringing Scotland in line with England and Wales, which had already legalized same-sex marriage earlier that year. As Scotland celebrates a decade since this transformative law was enacted, we reflect on how it has reshaped the nation's landscape. A Historic Milestone The act was passed following years of campaigning by equality groups, with the first same-sex marriages taking place just after midnight on December 31, 2014. Since then, 10,138 same-sex…

A high-profile trial is scheduled for October 2025 in Edinburgh, where Aren Bylot Pearson, 40, faces charges for the tragic death of his 24-year-old girlfriend, Claire Leveque, from Edmonton, Alberta. The events leading to Claire Leveque's untimely death have shocked her family and the community. Pearson, currently incarcerated at Grampian Prison in Peterhead, Scotland, stands accused of stabbing, strangling, and drowning Leveque on February 11, 2024, during a stay with his mother in the Shetland Islands. The Tragic Discovery and Police Investigation Leveque, originally from Westlock, Alberta, was in Scotland with Pearson to care for his ailing mother after leaving…