The enthusiasm and internal drive of communities are vital to the development process. We help communities to acquire leadership skills, recognise and develop their strengths and grasp economic opportunities. Such wide-ranging activities build confidence and the quality of life within the Highlands and Islands.

Initiative at the Edge/Iomairt aig an Oir is being used by the Network, in partnership with others, to encourage and support ways through which communities in our most fragile areas can become involved in the development and management of projects within their local areas.

A key element for developing the strengths and leadership capabilities of our rural communities is through the use of European programmes, particularly LEADER + which is one of the main initiatives aimed at encouraging community-based economic and social development. This programme complements other Network activity by focusing resources on small scale, locally developed action plans.

Partnership plays an important role in the Network's effectiveness in developing the strengths and leadership capabilities of communities. This is evident through our participation in community planning and partnerships with a number of bodies, such as the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations and the Scottish Museums Council.