Our Place, Our Prosperity

The voice of communities survey

We’re inviting community organisations across the Highlands and Islands to share their aspirations, plans, and challenges in our survey. Your voice is crucial in shaping the future of local development and community wealth building.

Why your input matters

We've commissioned this research to gain a deeper understanding of how communities across the Highlands and Islands can maximise opportunities through Community Wealth Building (CWB).

CWB is a people-centred approach to economic development, focusing on redirecting wealth back into local areas to benefit those who live there. By understanding your future ambitions and capacity to seize these opportunities, we can better target our support to help you achieve positive outcomes and strengthen place-based development.

Who should take part?

If your group has a social purpose, benefits a geographic community, operates on a non-profit basis, and is controlled by local residents, we want to hear from you. For clarity, this includes community councils.

We’re also keen to hear from those who already own community assets like land or infrastructure, as well as those exploring these opportunities – all your insights are invaluable.

Eligibility: Community groups and organisations within the Highlands and Islands Regional Economic Partnership area, including Highland, Moray, Argyll and Bute, Orkney, Shetland, Na h-Eileanan Siar, and parts of North Ayrshire (Arran and the Cumbraes).

What the survey covers

This survey is designed to capture the unique experiences and perspectives of community groups. It explores a range of topics, including:

• Motivations and drivers: What inspires your work?
• Volunteer and employee contributions: The role of people in your organisation.
• Engagement with the local community: How you connect with those you serve.
• Language, culture, and heritage: The importance of preserving local identity.
• Assets and income sources: Understanding your resources.
• Aspirations and support needs: What’s next for your community?

About the study

The study, carried out by independent research consultants the Diffley Partnership, will inform how we and partners can better support communities in achieving their goals.

The survey is open from mid-August until the end of September 2024, with results expected to be published early in 2025.

Ready to share your voice?

Your feedback is essential to building a prosperous future for our communities. Join us in shaping the future of our communities!

Take part in the survey