A historic moment in Scottish life

On 25 October 2025, thousands of people from across Scotland came together in Edinburgh to demand that politicians make the changes we need for a society where every household can thrive and prosper.

Scotland needs that change. Too many of us are being cut off from life's essentials. Too many are frightened of what the future will bring. Too many of us are feeling tired, angry, isolated, and disillusioned.  Too many are going hungry, or are without a home, or sacrificing meals for families, dreading winter due to heating costs, or struggling to get by on wages that don’t cover their household costs.

From Shetland to Selkirk, and from Argyll to Angus, we all want similar things. A warm, safe place to call home. A decent income that at least covers the essentials. Healthcare when we need it. Good schools for our children. Buses and trains that get us where we need to go. Those of us who are elderly, ill or disabled getting the right support and care to live with dignity and respect.

Our demands continue!

Scotland Demands Better brought together trade unions, faith groups, charities, community groups, and concerned individuals. Together, we stood up for hope, positive change, and a better nation for all of us. Over the coming months and years we will continue to campaign for our core demands:

• We demand better jobs for everyone who needs one, with fair conditions and wages that pay the bills.

• We demand better investment for life's essentials - like affordable homes, good public transport, a thriving natural environment, and strong public services.

• We demand better social security so that all of us have a foundation for the future. 

A film by SHMU.