February arrives with longer days and the promise of spring, signaling change from winter’s harshness. Despite its brevity, the month inspires fresh starts and the pursuit of small victories. It encourages us to move forward, leaving behind January’s gloom, and embrace each day positively.
During a recent festive enforcement campaign, Police Scotland conducted over 3,500 drink and drug driving tests across various towns and cities. The initiative aims to deter impaired driving, highlighting the serious consequences, including a potential 12-month ban, fines, and imprisonment that could impact personal and professional lives.
The Scottish Budget includes a significant increase in the Scottish Child Payment, raising it to £40 per week for families with infants under one year, effective from the 2027–28 financial year. This initiative aims to alleviate child poverty and address the high costs faced by low-income families during early childhood.
The Scottish Budget announces a mansion tax targeting properties over £1 million, set for introduction by April 2028. It includes a revaluation of expensive homes, creating higher council tax bands for properties valued between £1 million and £2 million, and above £2 million, aiming to increase contributions from wealthier householders.
South Lanarkshire Council is reminded about an overlooked Christmas light still shining on Glasgow Road, near Stonefield Road. The light depicts Santa and was spotted even after the official take-down last week, bringing some mid-January cheer to Blantyre.
Starting in 2026, UK citizens travelling to Europe must follow new Entry Exit System (EES) rules, requiring passport scans, fingerprints, and photos at borders. While entry is currently free, a 20 euro fee via the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be implemented for adults under 70 by late 2026.
In 2026, the UK has implemented a ban on junk food advertising aimed at children, starting with a voluntary initiative last October. The full ban restricts advertisements for high fat, sugar, or salt foods on TV from 5.30am to 9pm and online anytime, while outdoor advertising remains unaffected.
We’ve been looking at some things changing in 2026. Looking at employment law, a rise in statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is coming and will increase to £123.25 per week with further SSP reforms proposed under the Employment Rights Bill (subject to Parliamentary approval). From 1st April, 2026, the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage […]