Olivia Andrews

A Scottish Government fund intended to support families in the Highlands has seen over a third of its allocated spending used for salaries and operational costs, while significant amounts remain unspent. Freedom of information data shows that Highland Council, acting as the fund’s accountable body, has distributed relatively little to local charities and community projects. Councillor John Edmondson warned that youth services in particular are struggling despite available funds and criticised the complexity of the application process. The council defended its spending, stating operational costs are necessary to deliver long-term support and that unspent funds are committed through multi‑year planning and governance processes.

Parents in Portgordon have lodged a complaint after Moray Council rejected a petition to reinstate a school bus service cut following a policy change increasing the required walking distance. Families argue the designated route to Buckie High School is unsafe due to dangerous road conditions, flooding risks and a deteriorating footbridge. Petition organiser Iona Shewan claims safety assessments were conducted after decisions had already been made and that concerns raised through FOI findings were ignored. Councillor Sonya Warren described the route as unsafe and urged continued reporting of issues. The council maintains the route meets national safety criteria and has upheld its decision.