Building Stronger Community Participation: What works and what’s next?

Scotland is working to strengthen local democracy by giving communities a bigger role in decisions about the places they live, work and spend their time.

This online event will explore what needs to happen to help communities play a bigger role in shaping action on environmental, economic and social issues. Together, we will: 

• Share successes and challenges in turning community concerns into community action and influence. 

• Focus on the issues groups face around attracting and supporting volunteers so community organisations can grow and thrive. 

• Identify the community development support people need to take a more active role in local decision-making and service delivery. 

Building on strong foundations

Scotland has a proud tradition of community action. Community councils, tenants' groups and thousands of local organisations have long worked to improve people's lives and strengthen local communities. More recently,  communities are producing their own plans for the future of their areas with detailed ideas on what could change and how. 

Public bodies are increasingly committed to working alongside communities, recognising that local knowledge and experience can help improve the impact of services.  

Why have this conversation now?

While there is strong support for greater community involvement, many groups face significant challenges. These include securing funding, sustaining organisations as volunteers and leaders grow older, and attracting a wider range of people to get involved. 

Young people, people from minority communities and others who may face barriers to participation are often underrepresented. If communities are to play a bigger role in local decision-making, these challenges need to be addressed. 

Join us to share your experience, discuss solutions and help shape support for  community action in Scotland.

Please note that for privacy and security reasons, we do not allow AI or automated note takers to attend our events. Any AI note takers will be removed from the meeting by SCDC staff.