Rural services

A  “cutting edge” study published today has put an economic value on Scotland’s woodlands in helping to prevent flooding.

It estimates that the capacity of woodlands to store water and slow down run-off to downstream communities after heavy rain, is worth almost £100 million a year in Scotland.

With the prospect of wetter winters due to the effects of climate change, and more intense rainfall in summer, the ability of trees to reduce flood risk is becoming increasingly important. 

Former Royal Marines and farming charity RSABI are working together to deliver a pioneering mental health initiative for Scottish agriculture, being rolled out from this month.

The ground-breaking Mental Health First Aid training is aimed at encouraging people to talk more freely about mental health, reducing stigma and improving understanding about what to look out for and how to respond when someone may be struggling.

Scotland’s Census consists of many elements.

Almost 90% of households made a census return, with 90% of those completing their return online.

Fares on the Northern Isles and Clyde & Hebrides ferry networks will be frozen for six months.

Ticket prices will be held at current levels from April until the end of September to help people and businesses from Scotland’s remote rural and island communities. The freeze is also responsive to the challenges faced on the Clyde and Hebrides network in recent times.

The fare freeze will allow operators to release their timetables from April onwards.

Findings for Scotland from the Small Business Survey 2021.

We are now seeking views on a proposed definition of ‘Gypsies and Travellers’ for the specific purposes of the planning legislation. 

A route map to secure Scotland’s fastest possible fair and just transition away from fossil fuels has been published.

The draft ‘Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan’ sets out a plan for Scotland’s renewables revolution to be accelerated as North Sea basin resources decline.

Social Justice Secretary Shona Robison has announced an additional £2.4 million in funding to help people struggling to afford food and other essentials.