Deadline extended for voice of communities survey

Community organisations across the Highlands and Islands now have until 31 October to have their say on how to maximise opportunities to generate community wealth.

Commissioned by economic and community development agency, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the ‘Our Place, Our Prosperity’ project is led by specialist research consultancy the Diffley Partnership.

It’s open to community groups and organisations across the region, including charities, community anchor organisations, community development companies, community interest companies, social enterprises or co-ops, and any other third sector organisations. It’s also open to community councils.

Around 180 responses have already been received to the online survey, which opened on 19 August.

The study draws on the region’s long history of community ownership and social enterprise and will identify approaches that have proved most effective.

It explores opportunities to build on past successes and how best to target support.

As well as a large-scale online survey and follow-on in-depth interviews, the study includes consultation with a range of key stakeholders and a general review of policy.

Respondents are being asked about their aspirations, plans and challenges. This includes how land and community asset ownership could better support community wealth, considering issues such as longer-term sustainability.

‘Our Place, Our Prosperity’ factors in land and assets already in community ownership, as well as potential assets that could be important sources of revenue.

Researchers will also examine how to maximise community benefits associated with broader commercial and public sector development, particularly large-scale projects.

HIE is encouraging more participation in the survey before the new deadline to maximise the effectiveness of the project.

Margaret McSporran, HIE’s head of community wealth building, said:

“We want the project to be an accurate reflection of what it means to be a community organisation in the Highlands and Islands, what the challenges are and what support they need to make the most of opportunities. Their views are critical to this. So, while we’re delighted at the response we’ve had so far, we’re appealing to all those who have not yet done so to please take part.”

She added:

“This study will be particularly useful in relation to the role of social and community led enterprises in future community wealth building as a key feature of Scotland’s prosperity.”

A report of the findings and recommendations will be shared and published early next year.