Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is updating its policies to deprioritise content that is repeatedly re-uploaded, re-shared or minimally tweaked without offering new value or commentary. This move follows a similar strategy by YouTube, reflecting a broader industry push toward quality and trust.

Ben Luff, senior social media manager at PMW, says the update should be welcomed by brands that take content creation seriously:

“Meta is sending a clear message that originality wins. For too long, feeds have been clogged with the same trending clips. This update rewards businesses that put time, thought and creativity into their social content, and that’s good news for brands that genuinely want to connect with their audiences.”

The platform isn’t banning all sharing. Content that adds commentary, humour, insights or creative editing will still be rewarded. The distinction is crucial for businesses navigating the new rules. A company that reposts a trending video unchanged could see dramatically reduced reach, whilst one that adds their own perspective or transforms the content into something fresh will continue to perform well.

Ben Luff added:

“There’s a misconception that high-performing content has to be glossy or expensive. That’s not what Meta is asking for. It wants content that is authentic, useful and human. Even simple behind-the-scenes clips or quick, thoughtful tips can outperform polished but impersonal reposts.”

Unoriginal content will now be shown to fewer people, creating additional pressure on brands already seeing a reduced organic reach. PMW predicts that companies relying on reposted memes, trending clips or stock-style videos could see noticeable drops in visibility if they fail to adapt.

However, Ben Luff says the change should be viewed as a strategic advantage rather than a setback:

“Businesses that commit to originality will now stand out more than ever. This update levels the playing field. If you’ve invested in strong messaging, creativity and brand personality, Meta’s algorithms will work in your favour.”

Drawing on its experience managing multi-platform social media strategies for national and regional brands, PMW recommends that businesses focus on:

Storytelling over selling: Sharing the people and purpose behind the brand rather than just product promotions

Value-driven content: Ensuring every post educates, entertains or inspires the audience

Strategic repurposing: Transforming existing content into new formats rather than simple copy-and-paste approaches

Authenticity: Embracing imperfect, genuine content over overly polished borrowed material

“Meta’s algorithms reward engagement, and audiences engage with content that feels fresh and relatable,” concluded Ben Luff. “This policy change is actually good news for businesses willing to invest in creativity. It will make sure genuine effort gets visibility.”

SASH II supports charities that provide both housing and support services by enabling them to buy and manage their own properties. This reduces their reliance on rented accommodation and offers long-term, stable homes for people they support, including those experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic abuse, care leavers, individuals with learning disabilities, and others.

Mark Bickford, CEO of SASC, said: “At SASC, we see social investment as a catalyst for lasting change. Scotland’s progressive government policies, strong commitment to social justice, and collaborative third sector make it an ideal place for place-based investment. Through SASH II, we enable charities to gain direct control over the homes they provide, improving outcomes for tenants and building financial strength for their organisation. We encourage any charity interested in supported housing to explore how this fund can support their work—before the investment window closes.”

A Flexible Model for Charities
SASH II offers 10-year loans of £1-5 million, covering up to 100% of the property purchase price along with associated costs. Crucially, SASC absorbs both void and negative equity risk, significantly reducing financial exposure for participating organisations. This model provides long-term security for vulnerable individuals while helping charities strengthen their balance sheets, speed up delivery of housing outside of local authority processes, and lower costs through energy efficiency opportunities.

Strategic Investment Backing
SASH II is supported by a group of investors committed to social impact. These include the Scottish National Investment Bank, the University of Edinburgh, the Garfield Weston Foundation, Church of England, and Skagen. New backers joining SASH II for the first time include the John Laing Charitable Trust, The Linbury Trust, and the 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust.

While SASC’s investors ultimately bear the repayment risk, blended capital—through grants from government or charitable foundations—can further reduce financial risk for charities and improve access to this funding.

Proven Impact in Scotland

To date, SASC has deployed from this SASH II fund over £6 million in Scotland, with a further £5 million in progress. Among the beneficiaries is Simon Community Scotland, which used a £5 million loan from the first SASH fund to acquire 32 properties in Edinburgh as part of its Housing First programme. Blue Triangle, the first Scottish housing association supported by SASH II, secured £4.9 million to purchase more than 60 homes for vulnerable adults across the south of Scotland.

Dave Gorman, Director of Social Responsibility and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, said:
“We are proud to continue our investment in SASC’s innovative housing fund and to witness the remarkable work of Scottish charities empowering vulnerable individuals through supported housing. The impact and success of the SASH model has been inspiring.”

Susan Campbell, Director of Market Creation (Housing) at the Scottish National Investment Bank comments: “Like the Bank, SASC is an impact investor, which is why we were pleased to commit £15million to the SASH II fund.  The housing shortage in Scotland is well-known, which is one of the reasons we are pleased to support this innovative approach to place-based investment. By de-risking housing investment for charities, we are enabling them to grow their stock and support those who are experiencing homelessness and other housing needs. I encourage the relevant charitable organisations to apply.”

Final Call – How to Apply
Charities must submit their applications by the end of 2025, with all loan agreements signed by 31 March 2026. SASC recommends starting discussions 3–6 months in advance to allow adequate time for due diligence and structuring. Funds can be drawn down after the agreement date if needed.

SASH II is available to charities providing supported housing to Scotland’s most disadvantaged individuals, including those affected by homelessness, domestic abuse, substance misuse, involvement with the justice system, or transitions from care.

SASC is a member of the Commission for More Homes Scotland, a national initiative focused on delivering social investment solutions to address Scotland’s housing challenges, which has become increasingly urgent in the face of growing demand for supported housing.

To contact SASC for more information go to: info@socialandsustainable.com

For media enquiries contact:
Kathryn Hughes, Kayak PR
Kathryn@kayakpr.co.uk
Tel: 07801 823 839

Claire Bannerman, Vegetarian for Life’s (VfL) dedicated Roving Chef for Scotland, has reached an incredible milestone – delivering her 175th community cookery demonstration. From Glasgow to the Highlands, Claire has spent years inspiring people with her creative and nutritious plant-based recipes, tailored to older vegetarians and vegans.

From Gran’s Kitchen to a Culinary Calling

Claire’s journey to becoming a chef started in her grandmother’s kitchen. “I always wanted to work with food after learning to cook with my gran,” she recalls. Although her career began in food manufacturing, she quickly realised her passion lay in hands-on recipe development, particularly with local, seasonal ingredients. A lifelong vegetarian, Claire’s ethos revolves around making plant-based cooking both tasty and nutritious.

Claire’s connection to VfL began at a vegan festival, where she met the charity’s team. Drawn by their shared mission, she joined as Scotland’s Roving Chef, using her skills to support older adults in embracing vegetarian and vegan lifestyles.

Signature Dishes and Memorable Moments

Known for her vibrant curries, Claire credits her expertise to workshops at the Ashoka Cook School and her time in Kerala, India. “I like South Indian flavours in the sauce, but I mix up the base – tofu, paneer, or mushroom and chickpea – so there’s something for everyone,” she explains.

When asked about her most memorable meal, Claire fondly recalls her first experience with vegetarian sushi. “It was a new dish and a new way of eating. We shared long benches and bento boxes. My bench mate turned out to be Richard Branson, who also opted for the bento box!”

A Focus on Nutrition and Community

Claire’s cookery sessions are designed with older adults in mind, emphasising protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and other vital nutrients. “With smaller appetites, it’s important to make every bite matter,” she says, highlighting the importance of fortification and hydration.

Her workshops are more than just cooking classes – they’re opportunities to build connections. “Food is a great icebreaker,” Claire shares. “It’s about sharing memories and creating a sense of community.”

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

From adapting menus to suit diverse tastes to creating naturally vegan dishes, Claire embraces challenges with creativity. She’s a strong advocate for mastering tofu, calling it “super versatile.”

“Not liking tofu is like not enjoying curry,” she laughs. “You just need the right recipe.”

Looking Ahead

As demand for her cookery demonstrations grows, Claire is focused on developing sustainable menu options and ensuring they meet the nutritional needs of older adults.

“It’s an honour to help older vegetarians and vegans enjoy nutritious, delicious food,” she says. “By sharing accessible recipes, I hope to inspire others to explore plant-based cooking.”

With limited numbers on each event, the Frontline Walks ensure an intimate and personalised experience as the steps of brave soldiers who fought for our freedom are retraced. Three captivating routes, the Normandy Walk, the Western Front, and the Crete coastline, each span 100km through landscapes that witnessed pivotal moments in history:

• The Normandy Beaches Frontline Walk, 1st-5th October 2025, through historical beaches of Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah, finishing at The British Normandy Memorial to pay tribute to the fallen heroes of D-Day.
• The Western Front Frontline Walk, 8th-12th October 2025, from Lochnagar Crater, where the Battle of the Somme began, exploring the Battles of Ypres and Arras, and the memorial grounds honouring the soldiers who fought over 100 years ago.
• The Crete Sea to Summit Frontline Walk, 8th-14th September 2025, from the Lefka Ori mountains trek along dramatic gorges, secluded beaches, and clear blue waters, learning the focal point of the Battle of Crete from World War II.

The Army Benevolent Fund is the Army’s national charity, founded in 1944, so that brave servicemen and women would never face the post-war hardships experienced by veterans of World War I. Its founding purpose remains the same today, and the welfare of soldiers, veterans and their families is at the heart of its work.

2025 will see the nation commemorate the 80^th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, which marked the end of World War II. There has never been a better time to salute the soldiers of the past, present and future, and their families, by supporting the Army Benevolent Fund.

Peter Monteith, Director of Operations at the Army Benevolent Fund, said: “The Frontline Walks in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund are more than just a physical challenge; they are a journey that connects us to the sacrifices and bravery of those who fought for our future. By taking part in these walks with friends or as a solo adventurer, participants will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices soldiers made while supporting the critical work we do to support those who have served and their families.”

Throughout the walks, all supporters will have the opportunity to explore historic sites, learn from expert guides, and forge lasting connections with fellow walkers. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a seasoned hiker, or simply seeking a meaningful way to honour the service of our soldiers, the Frontline Walk offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Elly Clark, from Gloucestershire, who completed The Normandy Beaches Frontline Walk, said: “The fact that you are walking in the footsteps of those you are commemorating and raising money to keep their memories alive, to support those who are serving now, and to provide a cushion for those who’ve left the military, is a privilege. You’ve walked alongside these people, you’ve shared their stories and what they went through, and you’ve seen where it happened and felt those emotions. These are very special walks, and I felt like I had done something really worthwhile.”

Funds raised through the Frontline Walks will directly support the Army Benevolent Fund’s mission to provide practical, emotional, and financial assistance to soldiers, veterans, and their families in times of need. By taking part, you will not only embark on a personal journey of discovery but also make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to protecting our nation.

For more information visit https://events.armybenevolentfund.org/frontlinewalk

Instagram’s Funniest Viral Clips Compilation
A collection of hilarious and viral clips from Instagram, guaranteed to make you laugh.

YouTube

Top 30 Funniest Instagram Videos of All Time
A compilation of the top 30 funniest videos that have taken Instagram by storm.

YouTube

Trending Instagram Shorts Compilation – Funniest Moments Ever
A compilation of the funniest and most trending Instagram Shorts, featuring unexpected fails and side-splitting moments.

YouTube

Best Instagram Funny Moments of the Week
A roundup of the most hilarious Instagram moments of the week, including funny videos and memes.

YouTube

Top 30 Funniest Instagram Videos of All Time
A compilation of the top 30 funniest videos that have taken Instagram by storm.

YouTube

These compilations feature a variety of humorous content, from epic fails to clever pranks, ensuring a good laugh.

The community art piece will be touring the country gathering the public’s messages of love, unity, and acceptance on its journey. Guests can commit to one of the suggested pledges if they wish or leave a positive sentiment that feels appropriate to them, such as a dedication to a loved one.

The Tree of Pride will be at Buchanan Galleries on 20^th and 21^st July, and the public are invited to participate from 10am-6pm on Saturday and 11am – 5pm on Sunday.

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Tree of Pride at the centre over the Glasgow Pride weekend, and look forward to reading our guests’ messages celebrating inclusivity.”

For further details, please visit https://buchanangalleries.co.uk/

• 88% of the nation admit they’d take a smaller everyday item without permission
• Mini hotel toiletries and condiment bottles amongst the most common items taken without asking
• Those aged 18-24 are the most likely to ‘borrow’ something without permission

When it comes to Brits ‘borrowing’ items without permission, it’s miniature hotel toiletries that admit stuffing their luggage and pockets with the most, according to new research.

After launching their brand-new exclusive gameshow, Paddy’s Mansion Heist , the Paddy Power team asked Brits all about the items they take without asking, with 24m (36%) confessing to have ‘borrowed’ the miniature toiletries in a hotel room.

This comes after a whopping 88% admitting they’d have the cojones to take a small item without asking.

Other items that Brits reveal to have nabbed, include their favourite condiment bottles/sachets from restaurants (27%) and sugar/sweetener (26%), completing the top three.

Some of the more obscure items to come out from the research are dressing gowns from a hotel (15%), ashtrays (12%), and a whopping 5.4m (8%) confess to cashing in on the spare change their family and friends leave lying around.

Top 10 items Brits have ‘borrowed’ without permission

Age also plays a significant factor in living a lawless life as 92% of 18-24’s admit they’d nick an item without permission. This is compared to 84% of 25–34-year-olds who said they’d take something, following by 82% of the 35-44 age group. And it’s the over 55s who are the least likely to involve themselves in this act, with only 68% confessing that they would.

Regionally, it’s those in Brighton and Aberdeen who are most likely to ‘borrow’ without asking, with 31% confessing, respectively. Just behind sees residents in Plymouth (30%) admitting they’ve taken an item without asking.

Rachael Kane, Paddy Power spokesperson said: “We always suspected that those across the Irish sea couldn’t fully be trusted as they’re always stealing the best things from us… just look at Jack Grealish and Declan Rice in their England kits!

“For those Brits who like to indulge in ‘borrowing’ without permission, head to our brand-new, exclusive gameshow, Paddy’s Mansion Heist, where you’ll be invited to pull off the ultimate heist worth up to a maximum of 4,000x the value of your stake.”

Price overtakes battery as the most important factor for drivers considering going electric in latest Venson survey

www.venson.com 

Key Survey Findings:

In a rerun of the Venson Automotive Solutions ‘Attitudes to Electric Vehicles’ survey[1], 44% of drivers said that price will be the most influential factor if they switch to an electric vehicle (EV) this year. Battery range was top of the list of considerations for those surveyed in 2021 (45%) but this has now slipped down to fourth place.

Free installation of an at-home charger was placed as the second biggest priority this year (37%) followed by charging time (35%). Joint fourth place went to battery range and safety ratings, with 33% of drivers placing each of these as a deciding factor. In 2021, price came in second with 41% of votes, safety ratings in third place with 30% and charging time 29%.

When asked what further action the next government could take to encourage take-up of EVs, respondents to the 2024 survey believe financial incentives would bring the greatest benefit (44%), followed by increased investment in public charging points (26%) and more clean air zones in cities (12%). 11% would like to see new legislation introduced to encourage businesses to move to fully electric company car or commercial vehicle fleets in the next 5 years.

“SMMT data shows that sales of new and used EVs are soaring, with fleets accounting for a huge proportion of new sales” commented Simon Staton, Client Management Director at Venson Automotive Solutions. “It is perhaps unsurprising, given the extended cost of living crisis, that vehicle purchase price and charger installation are such significant considerations for potential EV buyers. With purse strings restricting buying decisions, financial incentives would understandably be gratefully received.

“Whilst businesses are playing a significant role in driving EV adoption, they could potentially propel the number of drivers opting for electric company cars further still by helping drivers fund home charger installation, through monthly salary deductions, loan or perhaps offering as a recruitment or retention incentive as well as ensuring vehicle options include models with the fastest charging times and greatest battery range.”

When it comes to what is changing drivers’ minds about switching to electric, three factors are working together to improve perceptions: improvements in charging infrastructure have increased confidence for 40%, 39% are encouraged by the positive impact EVs are having on reducing emissions and falling prices have helped change the minds of 38%. A wider range of vehicle options and greater confidence in owning and maintaining EVs have also helped for 20% and 19%, respectively.

Simon Stanton continued: “As we look ahead to the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, and the net zero pledge, it is encouraging to see drivers’ attitudes shifting and confidence increasing. Education on the reality of living and working with an electric car can help encourage drivers to move to electric.”

To help fleet managers and company car drivers understand the costs and convenience of EVs and address key concerns that could be creating barriers to greater EV ownership, Venson offers a number of free whitepapers. Visit www.venson.com/White-Papers for more information.

The self-evaluation tool and guidance are based on the Scottish Government’s Health and Social Care Standards.

The Health and Social Care Standards set out what people should expect when using health, social care or social work services in Scotland.

The guidance will also provide more reassurance to vegetarians and vegans who need support and care services – something that the charity hopes will be adopted outside of Scotland for veg*ns UK wide. Scotland is leading the way.

The standards have been developed to make these services better for everyone so that every person is treated with respect and dignity, and their human rights are upheld.

The guidance in Good care for vegetarians and vegans will be useful for inspectors to inform an inspection and for care services looking for best practice points.

Heather Edwards, Allied Health Professions Consultant at the Care Inspectorate, explained:

“The Care Inspectorate’s Health and Social Care Improvement Team has been delighted to work with Vegetarian for Life on this resource.

The quality illustration gives a clear guide to service providers and their staff on what good care looks like for people who are vegan and vegetarian experiencing care to meet their dietary and lifestyle needs. This tool is a great way to help a service self-evaluate their care and support for vegans and vegetarians and make any identified improvements.”

Dr Kim Stringer, Vegetarian for Life’s Director (Scotland) added:

“Veganism or vegetarianism can be a large part of someone’s identity and more than just their diet. A vegan or vegetarian may have lived this way for decades of their life and their right to follow dietary practice in line with religious or philosophical beliefs is fundamental and enshrined in law.

“Sometimes people are unclear what vegans or vegetarians do or don’t eat, or how best to ensure that their nutritional needs are met. This clear and concise self-evaluation tool and guidance is intended to enable care services to provide good care for vegans and vegetarians and to provide inspectors with information that will help during their inspections.”

 The resource is now available on the Care Inspectorate’s website. And here is a link to the webinar co-hosted by The Care Inspectorate and Vegetarian for Life.

Key areas covered by the new resource include the extent to which people experience:

• care and support based on relevant evidence, guidance, best practice and standards; in particular, the Health and Social Care Standards
• food and drink that meets their needs and individual preferences
• a positive attitude from others towards their vegetarian or vegan identity.

The study by VoucherCodes.co.uk, the UK’s most trusted savings site, examined the nations’ attitudes towards their finances revealing nearly one in 10 want to ignore their bank balance by burying their head in the sand (9%). And that’s exactly what a quarter of the population are doing as they admit to only checking their balance just once a week or less (25%).

Other emotions Brits feel when looking at their finances include being “curious” as they are unsure as to what they’ll have on any given day (21%), feeling “nervous” or “like they should be more on top of their finances” (12%), and 4%, the equivalent of 2.7m people, “wanting to run a mile.”

When it comes to making a debit card purchase, 29% have blindly tapped their card despite not knowing if they had enough money to cover the cost. Delving deeper, it’s revealed that Brits would spend an average of £98 on an item without checking their balance first.

If a purchase was to fail or decline, a quarter of Brits would “ask a family/friend to help cover the cost” (25%), another a quarter (25%) “would get out their credit card”, and 14% would simply laugh it off.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom, many consumers are already taking action to combat their FOBB, with a third (33%) “budgeting carefully every month”, a quarter (25%) “starting to pay more attention to their finances”, and one in four (26%) “looking for discounts and deals to make their money go further”.

Top 5 ways Brits are combatting FOBB (Fear of Bank Balance) 

These actions are clearly beginning to have a positive impact as 47% of the population feel “in control” at the thought of checking their bank balance, with nearly two thirds (38%) checking their available funds daily.

Anita Naik, Saving’s Expert at VoucherCodes.co.uk, comments: “The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has continued to shape and impact our daily lives, but it’s great to see our data reveal that Brits are beginning to take action towards their FOBB (Fear of Bank Balance).

If you suffer from FOBB, here are some top tips to assist with taking control of your fear:

• Set yourself a budget – setting out what you’re spending and where can help you keep on top of your finances and spot areas where you might be overspending. This allows you to save money and makes checking your bank balance much less scary. A budgeting app, like Emma, can be a great tool to get you started.
• Use a prepaid card – prepaid cards allow you to load a specific amount of money onto the card, helping you set a budget for your expenses and control your spending. Once you’ve spent the amount loaded onto the card, you can’t spend anymore, giving you a built-in spending limit.
• Seek support – if you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a financial advisor, a money advice service like MoneyHelper, or a trusted friend/family member. Opening up about your financial situation can help to ease the stress and can make getting a handle on your finances much less daunting.

“To help make your money go further, visit VoucherCodes.co.uk, where you can find thousands of discounts to help you save on a wide range of items, with all codes hand-tested daily to ensure you’re getting the deal you’ve been promised.”