ver the last 12 months, our Membership and Participation team have been working hard to improve your membership experience. Thank you to all of you who responded to our membership survey.
What we heard was that you love our Birthday Cards, SpeakOut and the invites to our members opportunities. We also heard that you wanted more membership offers in three key areas; subscriptions, food shopping and days out/activities.
We have been working hard to work with businesses and organisations across the country to try and deliver on these and we have some amazing offers now in place!
From water sports on the north coast, go karting in Glasgow, Penguin Parades in Edinburgh, museums, driving lessons, Pure Gym and holiday parks across the country, there are a whole host of offers unique to our members!
We know there are parts of the country we need to increase our members offer and we want to continue to make sure our offers are relevant to what you want. We would absolutely love feedback on our current offers as well!
If you have any feedback at all, then please get in touch with the team at membership@whocaresscotland.org
Letter from Louise
Welcome back to SpeakOut!
This magazine is your space - to share what matters to you and learn more about the staff and other members here at Who Cares? Scotland. This magazine belongs to you.
I’m Louise Hunter, Chief Executive of Who Cares? Scotland, and I am excited to share with you what we have been up to recently.
In August, we held our Summer Festival where over 250 members, staff, and volunteers came together for a day full of fun, laughter, and lots of karaoke! It was
incredible seeing so many of you there making it such a special day.
But don’t worry if you couldn’t attend! Looking onto the rest of the year we have Care Experienced Week, our Care Family Christmas and a busy few months campaigning for our Action on Advocacy campaign! There’s so much happening and it’s all happening because of you and for you.
So, dive in and get involved - this is your magazine and your space.
Louise x
Christmas is Calling
We’re calling on all our creative members to design our Christmas card for 2025.
The winning design will be printed and posted to every single one of our members across the countryimagine hundreds of people opening your Christmas creation! Just like our previous winners shown here, your artwork could be spreading festive cheer all across Scotland.
To enter:
• Draw your design on an A5 piece of paper
• Send your masterpiece to Who Cares? Scotland, Suite 208/209, The Pentagon Business Centre, 36 - 38 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ OR email it to membership@whocaresscotland.org
• Put your name, age and contact number on the back of your entry. The winner will receive a £50 voucher and a professionally printed bundle of your cards!
Closing date: 31st October
West Dunbartonshire
Champs... Wants YOU!
Hi everyone! I’m Sara, and I am the Development Officer for West Dunbartonshire. My job is to get our new Champions Board up and running and make sure that Care Experienced people within West Dunbartonshire have their voices heard...whilst also having some fun too!
The Champions board will be a safe space for people with any care background to come together, connect with others and have their say in topics that are important to them. This would include working with the Council and other Corporate Parents to create better solutions on things that matter to you and other Care Experienced. It would be your chance to be a part of important change and have your say.
Do you want to join or have any questions for me? Give me a phone on 07849 087461 or you can email me at: smcneely@ whocaresscotland.org.
Yoga For Sleep
Did you know that 70% of adults and 90% of young people in the UK have difficulty sleeping? So, if you struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep or feeling like you’ve had a restful sleep - you’re not alone!
Our resident yogi, Lynsey, shares her top three go-to practices for better sleep:
Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose)
This helps you stretch the entire back of your body and is great for relieving tension.
Stand with your feet hip width apart and fold forward. It’s fine to bend your knees. Keep your hands anywhere that feels comfortable. Try to have your hips stacked over your ankles and work to draw your chest towards your thighs.
Stay folded for five to ten deep breaths. To transition out, lift up half-way first for a few breaths before coming all the way back up.
Visualise any negativity from your day pouring out of the top of your head.
This pose helps for many reasons. It is a forward fold and the body is close to the earth, both of which make it very grounding. It’s also a great hip opener and will help relieve tension that can cause discomfort when in bed. So, it’s a win, win, win for promoting sleep!
Bring the soles of your feet together and let your knees fall to each side. Allow your spine to gently round as you fold forward. Don’t use your hands to push/pull yourself deeper. Let yourself melt into the position. Hold for five to ten breaths. Breathing into areas of tension with every inhale and inviting the tension to melt away with every exhale.
TOP TIPS
Be sensible! Don’t do any of these if they contradict any medical advice you’ve had.
Yoga is about how it feels rather than how it looks! Don’t worry if you’re not making the exact same shapes. The most important thing is to do what feels best for you.
Viparita Karani (Legs up the Wall Pose)
This is my favourite yoga pose for sleep - it’s especially beneficial if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
Bring yourself close to a wall and allow your legs to rest up. You can rest your sacrum (flat part of the bottom of your back) on a pillow, block or even a large book.
Your arms can be by your side or for a gentle stretch in your shoulders have them over your head.
Relax in this pose for about seven to ten breaths.
Catch Up with Claire
Our National Advocacy Helpline is available to any Care Experienced person regardless of age or type of care. We support people across Scotland and offer advice to those supporting Care Experienced people.
Every issue, we’ll offer you a chance to catch up with one of our lifelong advocates about the type of support they’ve been providing. This issue, we spoke to Claire who has worked for us for nine years!
Living c onditions
Over the past year we have seen an increase in issues relating to homelessness and housing, such as poor living conditions, lack of support to remain in their tenancy, finance and requesting a move to a new area.
Robert, 54, reached out for support after receiving an eviction warning due to his landlord stating that he was not keeping his tenancy and communal area to agreed standards.
The landlord’s complaint was that there was rubbish accumulating in the communal entrance and back garden. Robert stated he tried to explain his situation and that he couldn’t afford a bulk uplift just yet but felt the Housing Officer was not listening.
Robert was left feeling overwhelmed and due to mental health struggles, he felt unable to speak with his housing officer. Robert shared the housing officer had turned
up at his home unannounced multiple times banging on the door. This caused distress and fear linked to traumatic memories.
Robert is a single parent to two young children, works part time and has shared the struggles he has with his landlord when he first secured his tenancy.
Claire reached out to Robert’s Housing Officer, explaining the support we offer and that Robert had reached out in the hope of getting a resolution to the issue.
Claire discussed the triggers that Robert has and how trauma informed practice could be deployed, giving Robert autonomy in how he prefers to
If you have an issue you need support with and are a Care Experienced adult living in Scotland, please contact the helpline on:
be contacted. It was agreed that all contact would begin with a text message, where a call would be arranged at a suitable time and that this could take place in the housing office.
During the call, Claire shared how Robert had been struggling financially, even though in employment, he had to purchase costly household items for his child, which meant he was unable to afford to have the rubbish removed. The Housing Officer offered to arrange a free uplift and a reasonable payment plan was arranged to clear housing arrears.
Issue of the Day: Lifelong Support
We’re making space in SpeakOut for members to write about an issue they want to highlight. First up is Tony Anderson who wants Care Experienced people to have access to support no matter their age. Read why below.
Currently, The Promise looks like it will create change for those who will go through the care system. But for those who have already aged out of support (likely at the age of 26) I fear not enough is being done and we will continue to miss out on support from our Corporate Parents.
As Care Experienced people, we often face challenges that start as children to leaving care and well into adulthood. While the care system had always aimed to support us during our time in care, the need for advocacy doesn't end when we leave. Lifelong advocacy is essential to ensure we have the support and representation we need throughout our life.
I fought for my sister to receive support but due to her age this was denied. Without the support that she needed and cried out for, she was stuck in a neverending cycle, a cycle that resulted in her life ending due to now untreatable health problems. Those meant to care for us failed my sister and many more in our community and we need to stand up and say enough is enough.
Having lifelong advocacy would allow the continuous support provided to us, ensuring our voices are heard and rights upheld at every stage of our life. This support is necessary and immediate as each of us have to navigate systems like housing, employment, healthcare, and legal matters and without this lifelong advocacy, we will continue to struggle
to access services or face discrimination and stigma.
After leaving care, many of us will face significant barriers. Studies have shown that Care Experienced adults often encounter difficulties in areas such as education, employment, and mental health. A great example of this is a report by Who Cares? Scotland highlighted that 75% of Care Experienced adults surveyed reported experiencing loneliness, and nearly half felt their care experience negatively impacted their lifelong relationships.
While advocacy services are available, they are often inconsistent and not accessible to all of us. One way this is being addressed is Who Cares? Scotland are campaigning for a right to independent, relationshipbased, lifelong advocacy for all Care Experienced people who need it. If you see an opportunity to fight for this and you feel comfortable doing it - shout about it, ensure your voice is heard, ensure those who can change the support available to us hear that we need this.
Our care experience is for life; it doesn’t end when we reach our 26th birthday.
CW: death
WCharlie’s World of Gaming
e’re making space in SpeakOut for members to share their hobbies and interests. First up is Charlie. Gaming is often seen as just a pastime, but for Charlie, it's so much more than that!
Gaming is such a diverse hobby that can benefit anyone. Board games can increase your social interaction. You meet new people who share your interests and have a great time doing it. Video games open up a whole new world of opportunities. You could try physical games like Just Dance or VR workouts or lose yourself for hours gathering materials in Minecraft or Animal Crossing to build your dream home.
There are so many genres to choose from. Competitive multiplayer games, RPGs, racing, platformers, horror - the list goes on. There are even games where you play as a goat with a jetpack, just running around and causing chaos. There really is something for everyone.
cafes making friends, playing tournaments, and enjoying LAN parties, which I miss so much. It was the community I found along the way that really made the difference. They welcomed me, supported me no matter what and never judged me for who I was or where I came from. I was part of something and I became a part of their group.
People often hear me talk about gaming because it’s something I’m passionate about. It’s not just fun, it’s an escape, a motivator and a way to use my time meaningfully instead of being stuck in my thoughts. It doesn’t matter what kind of game it is, whether it’s board games, video games or even sports. They all help fill the space that comes from needing to stay busy and focused.
I wouldn't be where I am without gaming. It was limited during my upbringing but as an adult it’s been a constant in my life. When I was in homeless accommodation or in my flat, I’d spend hours gaming. When I wasn’t there, I was in internet
These days, I enjoy speedrunning. It’s where you finish a game as quickly as possible under certain rules. It takes a lot of time and practice but I’ve met amazing people through it. I’ve taken part in charity events, fundraised for Who Cares? Scotland, and found purpose in setting personal goals while enjoying old games I’ve always loved.
There’s a game out there for everyone. You’ve just got to find the one that clicks for you!
Gaming is my way of life. I plan it around appointments and daily routines. Even on my worst days, I can simply put on my headset and escape into whatever setting I decide.
Carers Corner
We know many of our members go on to care for children and young people, whether as parents or in the workforce.
Carers Corner is a space for carers to write in with their experiences, advice or to write about issues which matter to them.
Ibecame a single father after winning court cases and ensuring my children were taken out of the care system. Once the cases ended, the reality was a lack of follow-up support. Navigating the complexities of care experience and its impact on my children was a task I had to undertake alone.
Thomas’ Story...
In desperation, I emailed a local councillor. Within minutes, she called and offered help. The following day, a call from the admissions team brought an apology and confirmation: the girls would be placed in our local schools.
Finding schools was the first major hurdle. Despite living within walking distance of two local schools, the admissions team refused to let my children attend due to capacity. Instead, they insisted my youngest attend a primary school two miles north and my oldest a secondary school four miles west. When I said this was impossible as I don’t drive, I was told transport was my responsibility.
This journey for my 11-year-old would involve a half mile walk to a busy overpass for a public bus, followed by a change at a part of the city she had never been to – an unthinkable demand for any child. How could I ensure her safety? How could I manage two schools at opposite ends of the city?
When I thanked the councillor, she spoke of the frequent failures of systems to understand the needs of Care Experienced children. She warned me of further challenges, pledging her continued support.
In that moment, I knew I wasn’t alone.
These incidents exposed the prejudice Care Experienced children face, igniting my determination to ensure my daughters never face it unchallenged. We now have the knowledge and confidence to tackle any issues.
In those early days, access to the Who Cares? Scotland helpline would have been invaluable, providing direction and advice. Even small acts of support can be transformative.
My advice to guardians of Care Experienced young people is this: remember you are not alone.
Surround yourselves with trustworthy individuals who understand your unwavering priority for the children. And whenever you feel overwhelmed, remember the purpose behind your efforts.
“For small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love.”
If you want to submit an article for Carers Corner, scan this QR code or email comms@ whocaresscotland.org
Toasties, Games and Crafts
Everyone Welcome at the Drop-In!
“The group is the thing I look forward to most out of the week.”
Jamie-leigh
“It’s a safe space, and somewhere to look forward to coming to every week” Emma
Our Glasgow drop-in happens every Thursday evening in our office here in Glasgow. It’s for members aged 16 and over. It’s a really chilled out place to be, where members meet up with each other and connect, have a bite to eat and a blether.
There’s also loads of games and activities that are on offer too, depending on your preference. We have old fashioned cards and board games, or you can roll out the telly and the PlayStation or the Switch. We’ve made bracelets and other jewellery, we do Hama beads and we’re open to any other suggestions for activities that we could offer.
And now for the food! On the menu we have toasties (easily the most popular) with whatever fillings you choose. One week the order from one of our regulars was ‘everything you’ve got, please’. So, the record for the most filled toastie sits with cheese, ham, roast chicken, chicken tikka, chorizo, salami and pepperoni!
We also do pizza, chicken goujons, cheese bites, and pretty much anything else requested. We also cater fully for vegetarians and vegans and are always happy for suggestions to suit all tastes and preferences.
It’s a great place to be, you don’t have to be from Glasgow, if you can make your way into our office, you’re welcome to join us. All travel costs are reimbursed!
“It’s nice to have a change of scenery and I enjoy how laid back it is- there is no pressure to do anything, you can just come and be. That’s why it’s so inviting.”Chloe
“I enjoy seeing the same faces every week, and the company you get there” groups,“Comparedtoother whereyouhave tocomeeveryweekand justdosomething,youcan comehereandchill out,it’sgreat”
The Power of our Volunteers
The story of Who Cares? Scotland began in 1978, built entirely on the passion and commitment of volunteers. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that our first paid staff member joined, but the spirit of those who so generously gave their time for Scotland’s Care Experienced community is evident today within our organisation. Our modern volunteers are central to everything we achieve. Volunteering is woven into the very fabric of Who Cares? Scotland. The fact that many of our volunteers balance their time with work or fulltime education speaks volumes about
their incredible commitment to offering support. For others, volunteering with us is an opportunity to hone their skills, strengthen their CVs or even boost their English language abilities. We’ve proudly witnessed volunteers using their experience here as a springboard to find employment, embark on new careers or discover fresh directions in their lives.
From administration and championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion to shaping policy and boosting fundraising, our volunteers make a real difference, alongside their invaluable support for groups and events.
Working with volunteers every year since 1978 has meant we’ve had to embrace change. A recent change is that we’ve developed innovative remote roles like our Virtual Education and Engagement Volunteer, enabling them to offer vital tech support for online presentations from the comfort of their homes.
Perhaps nothing exemplifies the commitment of our volunteers more than the extraordinary efforts they put in to make our Christmas Day Dinner event happen. Our volunteers share their Christmas Day with our members by providing transport from all over Scotland to bring them to the dinner. The cost of private transport for this would be very expensive, and with volunteers there on the day to help the event run smoothly, the importance of this particular role cannot be understated. Volunteers also take time to wrap presents, sign cards and prepare for the big day.
The sheer number of different areas our volunteers are involved in is remarkable, and without their support, Who Cares? Scotland would not be the organisation it is today.
So, join us in celebrating our wonderful volunteers - from our founders to our current day superstars, thank you for all that you do to support Scotland’s Care Experienced community!
If you’d like to volunteer, please contact us at volunteering@whocaresscotland.org
What a Summer’s Day!
Our Summer Festival was an incredible day, and we’re so glad so many of you could be part of it- over 250 of you! Whether you came along for the sunshine (what little we had), the singing, the ice cream, or just to spend time with friends - thank you for making it so special. We hope the day was a reminder of just how special the care community is. We can't wait to make more summer memories next year!
Want to get out and about?
We’re on the look out for members who have an eye for reviews, from local restaurants to films, we want your honest opinions!
What we offer: Vouchers to help cover costs
What we need: Honest reviews of your experience - just a few paragraphs about the food, service, atmosphere, or film quality.
Scan the QR code opposite to volunteer!
Double Trouble at Harvard Summer School
Meet Natalie and Excelsis who went to Boston this Summer!
Since 2010, we’ve been running our Harvard Summer School Programme and have supported over 34 Care Experienced people to attend.
What did you study when you were there?
Natalie: I took introduction to psychology as it is my favourite subject and I wanted to see if I would like to pursue a career in this field. I enjoyed socialising with my classmates in this subject and learning about the brain and how humans think and behave in further depth. I also took public speaking to improve my communication skills and confidence. This was a challenging but useful course as I feel like it has helped me a lot.
Excelsis: and Kali Linux, ethical hacking. One thing I loved about public speaking was the presentation. I loved speaking in front of others and sharing my stories. The main thing I loved about ethical hacking was the satisfaction at the end after hacking into the other devices. It was so much fun.
Our most recent cohort -Natalie and Excelsis- have spent this summer across the pond, living and learning at the world-renowned Harvard University.
Now that they are back, we caught up with them to hear all about their unforgettable trip away!
What was the most memorable moment of the trip?
Natalie: Grand Central, Times Square and Central Park was amazing. Trying the hotdogs and walking around the city is something I’ll never forget.
Excelsis: saw the fireworks and got the best pictures, while being with all of my friends, it was amazing.
How has the experience changed your view of yourself and your future?
Natalie: Harvard Summer School was a transformative experience. I met so many amazing people, learnt subjects in more depth and how to balance everything better.
I feel more confident, independent and responsible and believe this has changed me in a positive way. It has given me many skills and knowledge beneficial for my future and helped me understand what I want for the future. I have met so many people from around the world and will see some of them again.
Excelsis:
This experience has changed me for the better as I now know that I can do everything I put my heart towards... I never really had a specific future plan, I just go with the flow but I feel like I can
If you had to describe your Harvard summer in one word, what would it be and why?
Natalie: Ineffable - my experience was indescribable, it was more than just great, it was life-changing.
Excelsis: Magnificent, no other words needed!
What would you say to another young Care Experienced person going next year?
Excelsis: It is a once in a lifetime experience that you will remember forever. There is so many benefits, you will gain friends for life and a lot of knowledge. Do it!
Natalie: Do it for the plot. Say yes! Put yourself out there and talk to as many people as possible and create amazing friendships. Sign up for all the activities and stay out of your dorm unless you’re sleeping. Try new things, visit new places and eat different food.
The Harvard Summer School programme is an incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and build connections that will
Keep an eye out for the next round of applications... and who knows? The next time you hear the name “Harvard,” it might just be you packing your bags for a summer you’ll
You only live once, this experience will change you and will be so fun if you put yourself out there and make it fun. It’s up to you to decide what this summer will look like for you so try your best and do it for the plot. #yolo
It’s time for Action on ADVOCACY!
We’ve been shouting loud for a statutory right to independent, lifelong, relationship-based advocacy for all Care Experienced people who need it. This saw us launch the Action on Advocacy campaignand we’ve achieved a huge win! The right to independent advocacy has now been included in the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill.
But our work isn’t over - it’s onto the next stage of campaigning. This stage will focus on influencing the specifics of the Bill as it moves through Parliament. The Scottish Parliament’s Education, Children and Young People Committee is taking evidence to scrutinise the Bill and your voice can be part of this crucial process.
Here’s four reasons to get involved in the campaign...
1. You will be a part of important change
At its heart, this campaign is all about fairness. Everyone should have the right to independent advocacy from someone who’s there just for you, who will help your voice be heard. Right now, having access to an advocate depends on where you live, how old you are and care type. By joining us, you’re helping make sure that all Care Experienced people can get access to independent advocacy.
2. Get creative with us!
Any well-known campaign is eye catching and creative. They can play on your senses and can sometimes be controversial!
Who says campaigning and policy work has to be boring?
We’ve already shared the campaign’s comic strips and advert. There’s more still to come which you can be part of.
3.
Meet the Decisionmakers
This is your opportunity to influence the people scrutinising the Bill! Whether it’s at Parliament, local events or participation groups, this is a chance to collectively get your voice and views heard.
4. Gain Skills and Confidence
How you get involved in the campaign can range from speaking with MSPs to submitting a drawing for campaign materials. Either way, you’ll boost skills in public speaking, writing or teamwork. You’ll build confidence and experience that stays with you, long after the campaign is over.
Whether you’ve received independent advocacy in the past or want to make sure others do in the future, your voice matters.
If you’d like to find out how to get involved, you can reach out to your advocate, link up with your local group or get in touch with the policy team on policy@whocaresscotland.org!
Trendspotting
From film and TV to books, music, and podcasts, we’ve rounded up the most talked-about trends, media and conversations shaping the world today!
Race Across the World BBC
TV BOOK
Frankly by Nicola Sturgeon
This show never gets old! The storyline stays the same, five pairs racing across countries with limited money, no phones, all for a £20,000 prize. But the journey and the travelling are the fun part!
Over the years, we’ve seen treks across Canada, South America, and from London to Singapore. In the most recent season, they raced 14,000km from the Great Wall of China to the southern tip of India, all on just £22 a day.
While many people think travelling requires loads of money, this show proves otherwise. It shows the fun, challenge, and reality of budget travel including overnight buses and sleeping on floors. Sure, a £4, 12-hour bus might not sound ideal, but if it means you can see the Taj Mahal then who wouldn’t be up for it?
Everyone at Who Cares? Scotland knows who Nicola Sturgeon is - she launched the Independent Care Review and was the pioneer of The Promise. In July, she released her memoir promising to “reveal the person behind the politician”. Sturgeon delivers by writing about her relationships with other politicians like Alex Salmond and Jeremy Corbyn, alongside insights into her personal life and the behind-the-scenes of politics.
She shares how listening to our members shaped her decision to launch the Independent Care Review, proving that when politicians pay attention to what people are saying, it can change their opinions and priorities.
MUSIC
Ticket chaos at Oasis
The Gallagher brothers are back together, but fans' wallets are feeling it...
After 15 years of feuding, Oasis announced their comeback tour, and the world went crazy.
With three dates at Edinburgh's Murrayfield in August, the ticket situation was chaos. We even tried to get them for our summer festival but had no luck.
Original £150 tickets disappeared instantly, then showed up on resale sites for up to £800. Some standing tickets were going for over £1,000.
Her predictions are bold too - she thinks Scotland will be independent within 20 years, along with a united Ireland and more power for England and Wales. Whether that happens or not, it’s interesting to see what she thinks is coming.
For anyone wanting to understand more about politics, this book gives you a detailed look with less of the political jargon!
The band might have reunited, but they've created a new problemtickets that cost more than most people's monthly rent.
TAnime Corner: The Magic of STUDIO GHIBLI
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) is a stirring sci-fi tale set in a post-disaster future where warring states threaten to destroy what is left of humanity. In contrast to the aggressive warmongers who refuse to learn from past mistakes, the young Princess Nausicaä seeks to inspire peace.
here has never been a better time to experience the wonderful marriage of art and storytelling that flows from the titans of Japanese animation, Studio Ghibli. Founded in 1985, and lead by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, Ghibli has never been more accessible to a Western audience, with an extensive list of titles available on streaming platforms.
The world Nausicaä inhabits is one radically altered by technology. A war dubbed the Seven Days of Fire where weapons caused widespread destruction has left much of Earth poisoned and uninhabitable.
Born in 1941, Hayao Miyazaki’s childhood coincided with the American occupation of Japan and the film reflects the legacy of WW2 with its warnings about the use of weapons of mass destruction.
Outside of Nausicaä’s valley live the Ohmu, a race of gargantuan armoured insects who thrive in the toxic wastelands. They are viewed as mindless monsters yet display an undeniable intelligence. When the valley is invaded and the conflict threatens both humans and Ohmus, Nausicaä sets off on her glider to seek answers on how to unite them, leading to startling revelations about the unmaking of the world.
Miyazaki’s interest in world culture also comes to the fore through the
Do you have a favourite Anime film or series?
Let us know – write a review and send it to us at comms@whocaresscotland.org for the chance to be featured in SpeakOut!
Let’s look at what has become celebrated as the studio’s first major release (despite being made before the founding of Ghibli). Directed by Miyazaki, it features all his trademarks – inspiring female characters, anti-war sentiment, flying machines and environmental concerns.
film’s namesake heroine. In Greek mythology, the Princess Nausicaä saved the hero Odysseus after a shipwreck, and when he leaves to resume his journey, she asks him to remember that she “gave him life.”
This connection to the Greek myth is highlighted in the film, where Nausicaä metaphorically “gives life” by resolving conflict and setting an example for others. Her actions underscore that leadership stems not from force, but from understanding, sacrifice and a willingness to understand the unfamiliar.
Written in the Stars
Aries (Mar 21- Apr 19):
Don’t rush into starting something new! Allow things to happen naturally.
Activity: Create a vision board. Collect images and quotes that represent your goals for the rest of the year.
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20):
It’s the perfect time for a clear out. Whether it's cleaning your space or clearing your mind.
Activity: Set a self-care routine. Spend a few minutes in the morning doing something that helps you feel better, like stretching, reading or walking.
Gemini (May 21- Jun 20):
Focus on your personal growth. Small changes have a big impact.
Activity: Write a to-do list for the next week and have a Sunday reset to prepare.
Cancer (Jun 21- Jul 22):
Treat yourself. Whether it’s some fun or quiet time alone - you choose!
Activity: Read a book that is out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s fiction or something political - you pick!
Leo (Jul 23- Aug 22):
You may feel ready to take charge of a new situation. Hold back on making big moves. Focus on your current plans first.
Activity: Reconnect with your favourite childhood activity. Whether it’s drawing, cycling or a sport.
Virgo (Aug 23- Sep 22):
Tackle a task you’ve been putting off. Getting organised or finishing a project will bring a sense of accomplishment.
Activity: Declutter your space. Tidy your room to create a calm and organised environment.
Libra (Sep 23- Oct 22):
Your quick guide to what the rest of the year might have in store for you…
Embrace some fun! Surround yourself with people who make you laugh.
Activity: Try a £5 Charity Shop
Challenge! Head to the shops and see what you can find.
Scorpio (Oct 23- Nov 21):
Focus on your personal growth and setting boundaries for the rest of the year.
Activity: Start a weird fact collection. Every day, write down the funniest fact you can find. Before you know it, you’ll be full of random knowledge!
Sagittarius (Nov 22- Dec 21):
You’re feeling lucky this year, so why not have a go at a competition or challenge?
Activity: Learn a new hobby. Try a new skill like Canva designing or learning a new language on Duolingo.
Capricorn (Dec 22- Jan 19):
Take the time to invest in things that matter long-term. Like your career or personal goals.
Activity: Practise mindfulness every week. Try short meditation sessions, breathing exercises or yoga to relax your mind.
Aquarius (Jan 20- Feb 18):
The rest of the year is all about new perspectives. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and think outside the box.
Activity: Bake something new. Try making cakes or your favourite homemade treat.
Pisces (Feb 19- Mar 20):
Focus on your inner peace. Set aside some time to reconnect with what matters to you.
Activity: Make a memory jar. Write down funny or weird things that happen and keep them in the jar to read.
STEPPING BACK IN TIME
March 1989
SpeakOut magazine has a long history with the first edition in 1979. To celebrate that history, we are launching a new regular feature: Stepping back in Time! We’ll be showcasing fascinating articles from the magazine’s history, starting with an intriguing piece from the 1989 10th anniversary issue.
Glasgow was designated as the European City of Culture in 1990 and celebrated this honour in a number of ways. As part of these preparations, and with a commitment to including voices from communities across the city, including Care Experienced young people, it appears that members of the then Strathclyde Regional Council were looking for real-life experiences to bring to the small screen.
From the March 1989 edition of SpeakOut:
1990 Glasgow European City of Culture “Strathclyde Regional Council have approached “Who Cares?” asking if they would be willing to participate in the above for a drama “Kids in Care”, the issues are all directed to young people who know about care. We have met with the people in Strathclyde concerned with this venture, any person interested who is a member of a local group withing Strathclyde should contact the “Who Cares?” office, we will also be contacting groups to see if they have anyone who is interested.”
Unfortunately, we have been unable to uncover any evidence of this drama ever being filmed. Research is ongoing, but we need your help! Have you ever heard of this project? Perhaps you even took part in it or know someone who did. We’d love to hear from anyone who could shed some light on this fascinating piece of history!
Leanne Murdoch
Advocacy & Participation Manager North 07522 565 141
Russell Stewart APW North Lanarkshire 07849 083 248
Lynne Morris APW South Lanarkshire 07786 068 138
Michelle McAtear APW South Lanarkshire 07841 033 107
Lisa Fleming APW Midlothian 07712 872 078
SOUTH WEST
SOUTH EAST
In It To Win It
Once you have completed the IN IT TO WIN IT page please submit your answers to us by the 31st October 2025 to be in the chance for winning a £25 voucher of your choice!
You can do this by giving the page to your Who Cares? Scotland or by asking a grown up to post it to Suite 208/209, The Pentagon Business Centre, 36 - 38 Washington St, Glasgow G3 8AZ or scan this QR code!
How many ghosts can you count in the picture?
Just for Fun!
Colour in this page and then cut it out and send us your finished picture! We love seeing your artwork. Ask a grow up to either post it to our address or email us at comms@whocaresscotland.org.
Mini Makers
H E O AL EN W L
You will need:
Step 1:
• Scissors
• Cellotape
• One toilet paper roll
Cut the toilet paper roll in half. Cut a strip of orange paper that will wrap around the toilet paper roll completely and tape the paper into place.
Step 3:
Work with one end of the toilet paper roll at a time. Stick a piece of cellotape onto the end of one of the paper strips and tape it inside an end of the toilet roll. Repeat with three more pieces of paper, so you have strips at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock.
Step 5:
• The paper below! O T ED N I I
Step 2:
Step 4:
Now you need to tape the other end of each strip into the other end of the toilet roll. Do this just as you did before, only starting with the second set of strips first.
Make your own decorations for Halloween!
Cut out the orange paper below. You will need 8 to 10 strips. Cut approximately 1 inch off of the length of each strip.
Once you have the initial four strips down, add another four strips of paper so that they overlap the initial (at 2, 5, 8, and 10 o’clock). See the picture at the right.
Step 6:
Once you have all of the orange strips of paper taped into place, cut out the green leaf below and tape it into the hole to complete your pumpkin!
YOU know? Did
Halloween started as a Celtic festival to scare away ghosts with bonfires and costumes.
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It’s not long until Halloween! Check out some of our favourite weird and wonderful halloween facts that might surprise you...
The tradition of carving pumpkins started originally with turnips and potatoes in Ireland, not pumpkins!
Trick-or-treating started here in Scotland, where it was called "guising" - kids dressed in disguise and performed tricks for treats.
Superhero costumes are the most popular Halloween costume choice for children.
More sweets are sold on October 28th than any other day of the year - people stock up just before Halloween!
The record for fastest pumpkin carving is 16.47 seconds, and the carving is very impressive!
Pumpkins are a fruit not a vegetable.
Got a weird or wonderful fact of your own? We’d love to hear it! The more surprising, the better.
Scan this QR code or send your fact to comms@whocaresscotland.org and you might see it featured in our next issue!
Where is Buddy?
Our friendly mascot Buddy the Bear goes to lots of different places, helping us work to improve the lives of Care Experienced people like you. Check out where he’s been recently.
Buddy’s been making the most of the lovely sunny weather, and has gone to see some cool places around Glasgow. To start, Buddy went for a nice walk and decided to try out the new bridge across the River Clyde to see some brand-new places.
On his way over the bridge, Buddy saw some really fun things he wanted to check out. The first thing he saw was a fancy ship called the PS Waverley – check out how big the chimneys are! After that he saw another boat called the Glenlee Tallship which is even bigger. Look at how small Buddy looks compared to the masts!
After checking out the boats on the river, Buddy checked out some fun buildings. The first one he saw is called the Armadillo (did you know that an Armadillo is an animal and it looks like metal?) Have you ever seen an Armadillo? Look at this picture of Buddy and see if you recognise it.
4 These are all the places Buddy went with us in just one day, but Buddy is with you too! You can send us photos of some fun places you go with your own Buddy – we would love to see them! Scan the QR code or email the photos to
Because he was getting a little tired, Buddy decided to go to one more place, so he walked along the water to the Riverside Museum where there are lots of old cars, boats and other vehicles. Check out Buddy chilling next to the funky shape of the building!
