February Recap
From Toddler groups to community websites, we’ve covered a lot of ground this month with CISP!
We’re delighted to share some updates on the groups we’ve been able to support this month, with funding going towards a fantastic mix of heritage, community wellbeing, digital connection, housing and outdoor access projects across the North Highlands. It’s always inspiring to see the creativity and dedication of local organisations working hard for their communities, and we’re proud to play a small part in helping these ideas come to life.
Historic Assynt
Historic Assynt received £1,885 for their project “(Re)connecting Communities with their Heritage in Assynt”. Based at the Old Kirk in Inchnadamph, the project will take community archives and heritage skill sessions out on the road through a series of pop-up events in villages including Elphin, Lochinver, Stoer/Clachtoll and Drumbeg/Nedd. By bringing the archive directly to people, the project will help more residents connect with their shared history in an accessible and engaging way.
For more information on this project and the organisation as a whole, check out their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/historicassynt
Ormlie community association
In Thurso, the Ormlie Community Association was awarded £1,677.90 to support their much-valued Toddler Groups and FYI (Fun, Young and Involved) Kids groups. The funding will be used to purchase new resources and equipment, as well as provide healthy snacks, helping to create welcoming spaces where children and families can socialise, build friendships and feel supported.
The Toddler Group sessions for under 5’s are run in the Ormlie Centre in Henderson Street, Thurso from 10-11:30am on Mondays, The Ross Institute & Halkirk from 10 – 11:30am on Thursdays, and Fun, Young and Involved sessions are on in the Ormlie Centre on Fridays (P1 to P3 ~ 4pm – 5:30pm, P4 to P7 ~ 6pm to 7:30pm)
Find out more about the groups here: https://www.facebook.com/OrmlieCommunityAssocoation
Tongue, Melness and Skerray Community Council
Tongue, Melness and Skerray Community Council received £1,410 to develop a new community website for the area. This simple but effective platform will help share information on local facilities and amenities, support community-led resilience and self-sufficiency, and improve communication with both residents and visitors.
To find out more about the area and the work of the community council, check them out here: https://www.facebook.com/p/Tongue-Melness-and-Skerray-Community-Council-61560121637187/
Wester Loch Ewe Trust
We were also pleased to award £660 to Wester Loch Ewe Trust towards the Poolewe Community Land Acquisition access route. This funding will support the cost of an independent valuation of land required to move forward with plans for affordable housing, an important step in strengthening long-term sustainability for the local community.
Further details about the Trust and its work can be found on their website: https://www.westerlochewe.com
The John O’ Groats Trail
Finally, the Association of Northern Trails Scotland received £2,000 for their “Keeping the Way Clear: Maintaining Access of the John O’ Groats Trail” project. This contribution will help cover the cost of strimming and essential trail maintenance, ensuring paths remain safe and accessible for walkers to enjoy throughout the year.
For the latest updates on the John O’ Groats Trail click the link: https://www.facebook.com/johnogroatstrail
