Zane Lee

Scotland's community pharmacies are pushing hard to lead a new national NHS weight loss service. In a manifesto released on September 2, 2025, Community Pharmacy Scotland calls for government support to help one in three Scots with obesity access safe weight loss medicines through local pharmacies. Manifesto Highlights Key Health Priorities Community Pharmacy Scotland unveiled its 2026 manifesto ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections. The document outlines seven main policy goals to boost pharmacy roles in health care. This push comes as obesity affects about 29% of adults in Scotland, according to recent Public Health Scotland data. Pharmacies argue they…

The Food and Beverage Carton Alliance has welcomed Lamipak as its newest full member after a unanimous vote at the 2025 General Assembly. This move strengthens the group's push for sustainable packaging in the food and drink sector, with Lamipak bringing its global expertise to promote eco-friendly cartons. Alliance Grows with Key Player The Food and Beverage Carton Alliance, often called FBCA, formed early in 2025 through a merger of two major European groups focused on beverage cartons. This new body aims to highlight cartons as renewable and circular options that cut down on waste and carbon emissions. Lamipak, a…

Scottish police officers are turning to their own pockets to buy uniforms because the standard gear from Police Scotland falls short in quality and fit. A recent review by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland uncovered widespread issues, pushing officers to seek better options for daily duties in tough conditions. Key Issues in Police Scotland Uniforms The review highlighted several problems with the provided kit that affect officers across the country. Many report that the equipment fails to meet basic needs for comfort and function during long shifts. Officers in rural areas face extra challenges, often getting outdated or…

Scotland has made a bold move by scrapping peak time rail fares on ScotRail trains starting September 1, 2025, aiming to cut costs for commuters and boost train use amid changing work habits post Covid. This decision raises questions about whether England, Wales, and Northern Ireland might follow suit to simplify pricing and encourage public transport. Why Scotland Made This Change The Scottish government decided to end peak fares after a successful trial that showed more people using trains without overwhelming capacity. Officials say the move saves passengers money and helps the environment by getting more folks out of cars.…

A major landslide struck the A83 at Rest and Be Thankful in Argyll and Bute early on September 1, 2025, forcing the closure of the main road and its usual diversion route, the Old Military Road. This has left drivers facing a lengthy 60-mile detour, with emergency teams on site assessing the damage and planning cleanup amid ongoing weather concerns. Landslide Triggers Immediate Road Closures Heavy rainfall overnight led to a significant debris slide on the hillside above the A83, blocking the carriageway with rocks and mud. Traffic Scotland reported the closure around 8:30 AM local time, advising motorists to…

Scotland has made a bold move in rail travel. Starting September 1, 2025, ScotRail has permanently removed peak fares on all its services, allowing passengers to pay the same price no matter the time or day. This change, announced by the Scottish Government, aims to simplify ticketing, cut costs for commuters, and encourage more people to choose trains over cars to reduce emissions. What the Change Means for Travelers This policy shift ends the era of higher prices during rush hours. Before, commuters paid extra for tickets on busy weekday mornings and evenings. Now, everyone gets off-peak rates all the…

Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, made a trip to Scotland this week, focusing on food and farming education. She visited Solsgirth Home Farm in Dollar for a special event and stopped at a local butchers in Stirling, just days after Prince William and Kate Middleton's short stay in the area. This visit highlights Anne's ongoing support for rural communities and education. At 74, she remains one of the busiest royals, with a packed schedule that often takes her across the UK. Details of the Scotland Trip Princess Anne arrived in Scotland on Tuesday for her engagements. She started at Solsgirth…

As the 2025-26 school year kicks off on September 4, the City School District of Albany is rolling out strict new procedures to limit cell phone use in schools. This move aligns with a statewide mandate from Governor Kathy Hochul, aimed at reducing distractions and boosting focus in classrooms across New York. Statewide Push for Distraction-Free Learning New York has become the largest state to enforce bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphones in K-12 schools, a policy that took effect this fall. Governor Hochul announced the initiative earlier this year, highlighting concerns over how devices affect student mental health and attention spans.…

Scotland's flood prevention efforts face a major setback, as a new Audit Scotland report reveals funding systems are not fit for purpose, leading to soaring costs and abandoned projects. Released on August 28, 2025, the report warns that thousands of homes remain at risk, with urgent action needed to tackle leadership gaps and funding shortfalls amid rising climate threats. Key Findings from the Audit Report The report, jointly produced by the Auditor General for Scotland and the Accounts Commission, paints a stark picture of delays and inefficiencies in flood protection schemes. It highlights how initial plans from 2015 aimed to…

In the heart of Andalusia, the small town of Teba in Malaga province transformed into a slice of Scotland from August 21 to 24, 2025, for the 19th Douglas Days festival. Thousands gathered to honor Sir James Douglas, a 14th-century Scottish knight who died in battle there, through reenactments, music, and cultural events that blend history with fun. The Historic Tale Behind the Celebration Sir James Douglas, known as the Black Douglas, was a key figure in Scotland's fight for independence alongside Robert the Bruce. In 1330, he carried Bruce's embalmed heart to the Holy Land but joined a crusade…