Almost half of Scottish parents think that their children are becoming more anxious about world events such as terrorism and global warming, a survey has found. The research, which took account of children aged 5 to 18, was published by the Mental Health Foundation, which warned that young people were being exposed to potentially unsettling news more than ever before in the digital age. It warned that this may be contributing to increased anxiety and mental ill health and has responded by publishing a guide on how to speak to children about world events. In total 42 per cent think their children are concerned about global issues ranging from terrorism to Donald Trump becoming president of the United States. Of those whose children were anxious, 61 per cent had noticed their children starting to ask more questions, 24 per cent had noticed their children seeking reassurance, and 13 per cent said that their children had gone as far as asking to avoid activities such using public transport or going to busy places.
Where’s the beef, angry customers ask Fray Bentos
Fray Bentos has been criticised by customers who say it has cut the amount of meat in its tinned pies. The brand has been owned in the UK since 2011 by Baxters. One online customer posted on Amazon: “Deep Fill? There was hardly any meat and mostly a tasteless gravy. Another, Jean Ross, said: “Had a chicken pie last night, and still looking for the chicken.” On a consumer website, William Johnstone wrote: “I’ve just brought a Fray Bentos steak and kidney pie but when I opened it, half the pie was missing. I’ve never been so disappointed in my life.” Catherine Holden said: “I bought two meaty puds, was really looking forward to them, what a let down .”A spokesman for Baxters, of Fochabers, said: “We believe our pies deliver great value for money, with the same great taste that has made them a family favourite for over 60 years. We do, however, take all customer feedback seriously.”
Ethical loans for Scots
Scots will be able to make use of a £1 million fund that has been launched to provide help to those in financial distress. The Affordable Credit Loan Fund, provided by the Carnegie UK Trust, is designed to give vulnerable citizens a better alternative to payday loans. Up to 150,000 people in Scotland are thought to borrow £250 million from short-term loan companies.