Delivering coordinated youth support and early intervention for children and young people aged 5–21 across East Sutherland, strengthening wellbeing, skills and community connection.
Estimated Price
1000
We aim to deliver a coordinated youth support project for children and young people aged 5–21 across East Sutherland. Activities will include:
Weekly youth club sessions and school holiday programmes providing safe, structured spaces.
Targeted early intervention support for young people at risk of disengagement, social isolation, or homelessness.
Practical skills development through volunteering, including opportunities in our charity shop where young people learn shop management, timekeeping, and other employability skills.
Community engagement initiatives, including “Take a Bite” free lunch programme and local Awards Group projects.
Exploring the purchase of land or a building through the Scottish Land Fund to establish our own facilities, which would include a zero-to-three childcare provision for Golspie. Community consultation and a steering group have already identified two potential sites.
2. Why is your project important for your community?
East Sutherland has a dispersed population with limited access to youth-focused services, particularly for young people aged 16–21 and early years childcare. Our project addresses these gaps by providing consistent support, practical skills learning, and early intervention.
The project aligns with the Area Place Plan by:
Supporting young people to develop skills, confidence, and resilience, contributing to healthier, more connected communities.
Strengthening local capacity for youth engagement, reducing isolation, and preventing youth homelessness.
Planning for local zero-to-three childcare facilities, addressing a significant local need in Golspie.
Encouraging community participation and volunteering, fostering stronger networks and sustainable local support.
3. What positive impact will your project have?
Expected outcomes include:
Improved wellbeing, confidence, and life skills for participating children and young people.
Reduced risk of social isolation, disengagement from education or employment, and youth homelessness.
Increased employability and practical skills through volunteering opportunities, including charity shop experience.
Strengthened community cohesion and engagement through volunteering, family involvement, and shared projects.
Progress towards providing local zero-to-three childcare, improving early years access in Golspie.
4. Key milestones achieved and next steps:
Community Engagement & Support Evidenced: Strong relationships with local schools, families, and community partners; steering group established for childcare project.
Project Plan/Feasibility/Business Case created: Drafted and regularly updated project plans.
Necessary Consents Obtained: Agreements with venues, schools, and partner organisations in place.
Quotes Obtained: Service providers and activity costs identified.
Funding applications Submitted: Scottish Land Fund application in development for community facilities and childcare.
Next Steps:
Submit project proposal to BeConnected Highland.
Expand programme delivery to reach more children and young people.
Implement structured monitoring to capture impact data.
Progress Scottish Land Fund application and community-led facility plans.
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