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The Jigsaw Project

Dunbeath & District Centre  •  organisation  •  2025-12-16  •  No comments
Jigsaw Project - Artists Illustration
Jigsaw Project - Artists Illustration


Proposal code: THC-2025-12-24

Create a legacy by delivering a new 21st-century Community Health & Wellbeing Centre in Dunbeath, improving access to preventative social care, reducing isolation - supporting people across Caithness.

Estimated Price

2100000

1. What do you want to do? We aim to deliver a new 21st Century Community Health & Wellbeing Centre in Dunbeath. Activities requiring funding include:

  • Construction/fit-out/running costs of the new hub/centre.

  • Creation of flexible spaces for social care, health, and community activities.

  • Development of programs to reduce isolation and support all ages (children, adults, older people).

  • Organising community events, trips, and visits to enhance wellbeing.

  • Volunteer training and PVG registrations to safely involve the community.

  • (Next project phase - repurposing of the existing centre into fully accessible respite and holiday accommodation).

2. Why is your project important for your community? Dunbeath and the wider Caithness area currently have limited access to integrated health, social care, and wellbeing services. This project:

  • Improves preventative care access, supporting residents before crises occur.

  • Reduces isolation, particularly for older people and vulnerable groups.

  • Provides inclusive spaces for learning, fitness, and social interaction.

  • Aligns with the Caithness Area Place Plan by enhancing community infrastructure, promoting social inclusion, and supporting wellbeing initiatives.

  • Creates a lasting legacy for the community, ensuring services are sustainable for future generations.

3. What positive impact will your project have? The anticipated outcomes include:

  • Increased community participation in health and wellbeing activities.

  • Reduced social isolation and improved mental health for residents of all ages.

  • Enhanced preventative health measures, lowering pressure on local health services.

  • Opportunities for volunteering and skills development, fostering stronger community connections.

  • A tangible community hub/centre that strengthens local identity and pride.

4. Key milestones achieved so far and next steps:

  • Support Evidenced: Needs analyisis completed and strong community support.

  • Project Plan/Feasibility/Business Case Created: Detailed plans and business case completed.

  • Necessary Consents Obtained: Community Asset Transfer (CAT) & Planning permission secured.

  • Quotes Obtained: Initial quotations received for construction, refurbishment, and equipment.

  • Funding: Funding strategy activated. (SSE Renewables pledge in place).

  • Misc: Design team appointed - project is shovel ready.

Next Steps:

  • Finalise funding and secure grants.

  • Begin construction and fit-out.

  • Recruit volunteers and deliver PVG training.

  • Launch initial programs and events to engage the community.

5. Anticipated Start/End Dates:

  • Start Date: April 2026

  • End Date: March 2028 (including full programme delivery and evaluation)