Using your community’s skills in your project - 3 inspiring examples
10 April 2026
When applying for our funding in Scotland, we want you to think about how your project can bring out the best in your community. A project that helps people share their skills, knowledge and experience in ways that benefit everyone.
If you’re applying for our Community Action, Fairer Life Chances or Young Start programmes, we’re looking for projects that include:
meaningful community involvement
being community led
use a community’s existing skills and interests
In this blog, we'll show 3 projects that are doing this well. Each has focused not on what their community lacks but on the unique skills, traditions, and knowledge that their communities bring.
1. Urras Coimhearsnachd Bhràdhagair agus Àrnoil, Isle of Lewis
Urras Coimhearsnachd Bhràdhagair agus Àrnoil received £64,732 to support the Grinneabhat project. It’s a community-led initiative on the Isle of Lewis - an area where isolation and limited local services make community connection even more vital.
The project is run by local trustees, staff, and volunteers, who use their knowledge to shape services that address rural needs. They’ve formed sub-committees led by local trustees with expertise in:
arts
Gaelic language
gardening and maintenance
community events and activities
These sub-committees allow people to be involved in the things they’re passionate about, rather than being involved in everything.
What we like about this project
“The Grinneabhat project has developed a sustainable model where everyone plays a role. They haven’t had to bring in external support because they maximise the skills that are already here. This project is a fantastic example of making the most of local resources in a rural setting.”
Lesley Galbraith - Funding Officer
2. RecoveryAyr, South Ayrshire
RecoveryAyr received £165,989 to run their South Ayrshire Recovery Hub. The project supports people in recovery to rebuild their lives. The approach centres on empowering people to use their experiences and strengths to support others during their own recovery.
Volunteers who are in recovery take on roles that build on their strengths and interests, such as:
leading activities
supporting the community café work
contributing to art, crafts and other groups
They’re also offered training in skills like food hygiene and customer service, helping them build confidence and take on new responsibilities over time.
What we like about this project
RecoveryAyr is remarkable because it empowers individuals by focusing on their journey and strengths. By creating a safe space where people can build on what they’re good at, they offer a pathway toward confidence, community, and personal growth.
Alexandra Krause - Funding Officer
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3. Granton Community Gardeners, Edinburgh
Granton Community Gardeners received £108,673 to support its work in a neighbourhood rich in creativity, resilience and cultural diversity - where residents are coming together to overcome shared challenges.
They shows us how diverse talents can build an inclusive community, where everyone has something to offer.
During community lunches, a different ‘head chef’ teaches the group how to prepare a dish from their culture. They also run workshops in traditional skills such as basket weaving and mushroom growing.
This promotes a sense of pride and allows people to share and learn about the different cultures in their community.
What we like about this project
Granton Community Gardeners shows how diverse strengths can enrich a project. They’re inclusive and have create a space where everyone’s talents contribute to the community’s strength
Anna Grant - Funding Officer
Planning your own project
To help you plan your project, read our other blogs:
Learn more about our funding in Scotland.