2019

The Scottish Governance Code for the Third Sector
Five Core Principles

This Scottish Governance Code has been created for the third sector, by the third sector. It is a statement of best practice and has been developed by Scotland’s Third Sector Governance Forum following consultation with over 250 individuals and organisations.

There are five core principles
Organisational purpose
Leadership
Board behaviour
Control
Effectiveness

For details of how this may help your organisation please click here.

Electricity Supply – Priority Services Register
Be Prepared

We all dread power cuts but it can be devastating for some of us. Can you think of a family member, neighbour or friend to nominate to receive priority support during these difficult times? Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks offer this service to vulnerable people.

Benefits of joining the Priority Services Register
Dedicated 24 hour priority services phone number.
Priority updates during a power cut.
Nominate someone for us to contact on your behalf.
Provide information in the format you need, for example Braille or audio CD.
Security password to keep you safe.

Who is eligible to join the Priority Services Register?
You can join our Priority Services Register if you:
Are dependent on electricity for home medical care, for example a kidney dialysis machine or ventilator.
Have a chronic illness or short term medical condition; for example you are recovering from a major operation.
Are disabled.
Have special communication needs; for example because you are blind, partially sighted, deaf or hard of hearing.
Have children under 5.
Are over 60 years old.

For more information visit the website here.

Broadband Update
Options for You  

For details of the options available to you if your home or business has not benefitted from the recent rollout of superfast broadband please click here.

 

 

Mobile Technologies
Huge Carbon Reductions Achieved

This new report  produced in collaboration with the Carbon Trust calculates that mobile technologies enabled 2,135 million tonnes CO2e reductions of greenhouse gases in 2018  – that is a huge reduction – about the same amount saved as Russia emits!

Some of the factors which contributed to this reduction includes:

  • using smart phone technology to reduce travel and control heating in our homes
  • smart meters
  • route planning

Read more on how savings have been made here.

Tattie Growing Competition
Congratulations!

Seven local children’s groups entered the ‘Grow the Heaviest Crop’ at the local
Glen Urquhart Horticultural Society annual flower and vegetable show.

The winners this year – with their crop weighing in at 674 gms was
the Gaelic Group at Glen Urquhart Primary School.

Well done everyone.  We’ll look forward to donating more tubers for the competition next year.

 

Proposed Transport Solutions
Transport Feasibility Study

Glen Urquhart and Strathglass

The study aims to identify the viability of different transport options with a view to improving the transport provision for both residents and visitors to the area.

Three surveys have been designed to capture residents’, young peoples’ and visitors’ views on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the local transport provision. The next stage is to gain feedback on the options.

To view the options please see the attached information presentation. Transport Options

OpenNESS – Inclusive Communities
Dementia Friendly Training

As part of the Inclusive Communities partnership, we are helping co-ordinate the development of training, awareness and resources to help improve accessibility for all across our area.

We are planning a series of one hour sessions in the new year but in the meantime we would like to encourage you to become a Dementia Friend. It doesn’t take long, but makes such a difference to people with Dementia, follow these easy steps:

  • log into the Dementia Friends website
  • watch the 4 minute introductory film
  • choose a further film to view – they are only 4 minutes so you can watch them all – they are really good
  • On the Phone
    Getting Around
    Paying for Things
    Reading and Writing
  • complete your registration details to be a Dementia Friend.

The Key Message through these awareness sessions is to  Be Calm   Be Kind   Be Patient

We’ll be using the The Life Changes Trust  toolkit  to help to create our own robust dementia friendly communities.  We would be delighted for your to help as part of a the working group:  contact Nicky for more information.

The Glenurquhart Care Project  – Opportunities
New Services and Projects   

The Glenurquhart Care project is introducing some exciting opportunities. At present they offer day care at the Glenurquhart Centre either through statutory referrals or privately.

They also offer a laundry Service, Domestic Service and drop in lunch.

In 2019 they will be introducing new projects including a Handyperson scheme, Home based respite and Befriending Service.

Feedback from the community has been that other projects may help too. These include:

  • Dog walking service
    • Local on call service
    • Transport Scheme
    • Meals on wheels
    • ‘At risk’ visiting /telephone service to vulnerable people over winter
    • Tea time lunch pack
    • Respite at the centre
    • Ironing service

They would be most interested to hear if this would help individuals so please do call the centre to discuss any of these further, tel. 01456 459077.

GCP is a charity and its main service, the Glenurquhart Care Centre is assisted through the kind support of ‘The Friend’s of the Centre’. They meet on the second Saturday of the month. All funds go towards additional items the centre requires.

The centre also holds community meetings where they invite speakers who can give advice to carer’s and anyone interested in learning more about a particular charity. These are held on the last Thursday of the month, 11am to 12pm – everyone is warmly welcome. Do let them know if you would like a specific speaker which can hopefully be arranged.

31st January: Police Scotland
28th February: Age Scotland
28th March: Sight Action

To enable them to provide more services we are currently advertising for relief respite and day care staff as well as an apprenticeship placement  for 3 years (which includes SVQ 2 and 3 training and driving lessons). Please do contact the centre for further information or click here.

Soirbheas Spring Newsletter
Available Now
The Soirbheas Spring Newsletter is out!

Click here to read it!

Transport Feasibility Study
Exploring Solutions

Rural communities face huge challenges when it comes to transport. Soirbheas the community charity for Glen Urquhart and Strathglass is leading the exploration of solutions for the area.

Urban Foresight has been engaged to undertake a transport feasibility study covering the Glen Urquhart/Strathglass area on behalf of the Charity. The project develops actions identified in the Local Energy Plan (LEP) for Drumnadrochit, such as a number of low carbon transport solutions.  The study has secured CARES funding as well as support from The Highland Council.

The study will aim to identify the viability of different transport options with a view to improving the transport provision for both residents and visitors to the area. Urban Foresight are appraising these options to inform Soirbheas of the associated benefits, challenges and costs. “Affordable, sustainable mobility is key to the flourishing of rural communities. We are pleased to be working with Soirbheas to find transport solutions for the communities of Glen Urquhart and Strathglass” said Paul Blakeman, Head of innovation at Urban Foresight.

Three surveys have been designed to capture residents’, young peoples’ and visitors’ views on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the local transport provision. The surveys are open until end of July; please visit the Soirbheas website for more information www.soirbheas.org.  Residents and visitors of all ages are encouraged to complete a survey. A community consultation event will take place on Wednesday 28th August (location to be confirmed) to gain feedback on the proposed measures. This event will capture residents’ opinions on how the project should move forward and identify which options should be developed.

Carol Masheter, Soirbheas Community Development Officer at Soirbheas says “We hope that the study will identify solutions and new partnerships to help address transport issues across our rural communities. As a local funder we are keen to ensure the charity’s funds are deployed in the most effective and sustainable way with the maximum impact.”

“Transport plays a significant role in ensuring rural communities have access to facilities and services. It is also important in helping to provide a range of activities to reduce social exclusion. Highland Council work closely with community groups to identify transport solutions for all rural communities.” said Ali MacDonald, Highland Council.

The survey’s are now closed and the report will be issued shortly for the:

  • Residents survey
  • Young peoples survey
  • Visitors survey

Highland Sustainable Development Fund
Round 4 Applications Open

SSE Renewable’s fund is open to non-profit making organisations, community groups and charities across the Highland local authority region, with £1 million available.

Successful projects will have the potential to deliver transformational social, economic and environmental changes in the local area and support long-term community development.

Projects will also achieve one or more of the following priority themes:

  • Creating opportunities – increase opportunities for education and employment
  • Empowering communities – build resilience and protect vulnerable residents
  • Building sustainable places – stimulate meaningful community regeneration

Based on SSE Renewable’s experience of recently operating the fund in other regions of Scotland, and on the high level of interest expressed prior to this funding round opening in the Highland area, they anticipate that the fund will be significantly oversubscribed.

The deadline for applications to be received is 12 Noon on 15 January 2020.

Fund guidelines, dates of information events and an application form are available at SSE website 

CARES Funding 2019-20
Deadline 13 Jan 2020

The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) is delivered by Local Energy Scotland and offers a range of financial support to help you deliver local energy projects. The CARES funding streams support you from initial ideas through to construction to your project being operational.

The team of CARES Development Officers can help you to develop your application and, if approved, they can also help you with appointing consultants or contractors. They also have a wealth of information available on the website and those interested in applying for CARES support are encouraged to read the general guidance note and the supplementary guidance for each of the funds. This contains details of the current funding themes and eligibility.

The main funding streams for new applicants are:
• CARES Enablement Grant – Up to £25K which can be used to fund feasibility studies for energy systems or renewable energy projects, to investigate shared ownership opportunities or to work to maximise the impact from community benefit association with renewable energy projects. Enablement grant applications are accepted throughout the year.
• CARES Development Loan – Up to £150K (10% interest rate) for renewable energy projects with a reasonable chance of success. The loans can include a write-off facility that allows development risk to be mitigated by allowing the applicant to apply to change the loan to a grant, if the project is unable to progress.

For more information click here.

Christmas shutdown checklist for Businesses
Save money and energy

Leaving equipment running when it’s not needed wastes energy and money at any time of year. But leaving equipment on throughout the Christmas holiday period when no one is at work can send your energy bills soaring needlessly high.

The good news is that Resource Efficient Scotland’s free Christmas shutdown checklist gives you a handy reminder of all the actions you should take to make sure your business is not wasting resources this Christmas.

By scheduling in a little time to do some final checks you can relax in the knowledge that you’re not wasting energy or money, and that you’ll be doing your bit for the environment.

So be prepared and download your FREE checklist here.

Christmas 2019
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

As we head into the winter season, have a look at our Christmas Leaflet  on keeping warm, reducing waste and some tasty recipes.
Some more tips on reducing food waste available from Love Food Hate Waste.

More recipe ideas  in our tattie project page and online from Love Food Hate Waste recipes

wishing everyone all the very best for the festive season and the new year

ENERGY BEST DEALS
DROP IN SESSION
Thursday 12 December

To help find the best energy deal for you or help with energy issues come along to Glenurquhart Library, Drumnadrochit,  between 1pm and 5pm, and speak to the team from Citizens Advice.

You can find out more from Citizens Advice by telephone on 01463 237664

Inspirational Heritage
Glen Urquhart Primary

We are delighted that the Cnocan Burraidh heritage project is inspiring our young workforce of the future.  Please see the information below and if you can help please send Nicky your contact details to pass on, or contact Miss Mullin at the school.

As part of the schools focus on preserving our heritage, Glenurquhart P7 are having a careers fortnight looking at jobs associated with history, archaeology, stone masonry and building preservation.

This will be from Monday 2nd – Friday 13th December 2019.

Would you or would someone you know be willing to visit the P7 class for about 45 minutes, or would you consider being interviewed by a trio of pupils for half an hour?  This would provide the pupils with positive role models and invaluable first-hand information and inspiration!  The teachers are happy to support the children to conduct telephone or email interviews if a physical visit isn’t possible.

Pupils will create a presentation to share their learning with the rest of the school during the last week of term and all contributors will be welcome to attend!   With your permission, some of the presentations will be posted on their class blog

Miss Mullin has told us that “in previous years we have focused on food, hospitality and tourism and STEM related jobs.  This is the first time we have examined jobs associated with preserving our built and cultural heritage – areas which our P7s are particularly interested in!”

Any help would be very much appreciated,

eBike Grant Fund Round 4
Deadline 29th November 2019

Transport Scotland have made available £1.14m for Round 4 of the eBike Grant Fund in 2019/20 to support the adoption of ebikes and ecargo bikes as an alternative to car journeys.

Public and third sector organisations based in Scotland and invited to apply for grant funding to support the delivery of ebike and ecargo bike pools, public hire and loan schemes.

Read more about the fund eligibility and key dates here or email [email protected].

OpenNESS Project Business Survey
Accessibility   Training

Soirbheas are part of the OpenNESS Inclusive Community Project.  The aim of this project is to help create a more welcoming, supportive and accessible community for all – both residents and visitors.  One way we can achieve this is by helping raise levels of understanding, knowledge and confidence so staff are better able to recognise and support individuals living with long-term conditions.

We are asking businesses – sole traders and employers –  in Glen Urquhart and Strathglass to help us identify appropriate accessibility training, including dementia awareness.  This will result in opportunities being available for business owners and their staff to access at a time and place that is suitable.

Supporting people by improving our provision as an inclusive community is the right thing to do.  But there are also several key business benefits such as enhanced quality provided by confident and knowledgeable staff; resulting in increased profits by securing a larger customer base – this could be from the 300,000 disabled people surveyed by Visit Scotland who don’t holiday in the UK because of a lack of accessible information.  See more details and support on their web site.

If you haven’t received an email with the link to the survey please get in touch. It may be that your business details are not registered with us and we would be delighted to add you to our contact list.

Nicky MacLennan
Assistant Community Development Officer

Email: [email protected]
Mobile: 07842 781986

Veterans Project
Dementia and Veterans Training

Free session in Inverness on 15 November   

Age Scotland is working alongside partners in the Unforgotten Forces consortium to boost the health and well-being of veterans in Scotland aged 65 and older, including accessing extra support.

As part of the project a series of free training days are being delivered throughout Scotland.  It is for anyone who works or volunteers with a community group or service supporting older adults. This session will cover dementia and supporting people who have served in the armed services.

Information Sheet

Veterans Project web page

Email the organisers for more information and to book a place.

Highland 3rd Sector Interface
We would like to let you know nominations for the Third Sector Representatives Pathway have opened.  Deadline 5pm on 31 October

How to nominate

To nominate for one or more of the opportunities below please email [email protected] with the following information clearly listed:

  • Name of the individual nominated (you can nominate yourself)
  • Link/connection to the Third Sector: i.e. their paid or voluntary role(s)
  • A short Bio outlining the skills relevant to the role being nominated for (Maximum 150 words)

This is the second year of the HTSI supporting the direct representation of the Sector by the Sector on the principles of democratic selection and transparency. The following opportunities are seeking nominations for Third Sector representatives to start in November 2019:

  • Community Justice Partnership
  • The Alcohol and Drug Partnership
  • The Children’s Services leadership Group (Council)
  • Care, Learning and Housing Committee (Council)
  • Community Safety and Resilience (CPP)
  • Community Learning, Development and Engagement Delivery Group (CPP)
  • Mental Health and Wellbeing Delivery Group (CPP)
  • Infrastructure Delivery group (CPP)
  • Poverty Delivery group (CPP)

Further Detail here: Third Sector Reps info 2019

Glenurquhart Centre – Finalists!
Charitable Organisation of the Year

We are delighted to share the news that the Glen Centre have reached the final round in category 14 – Charitable Organisation of the Year,  in the Highland Heroes awards 2019.

The winner is chosen through a voting process by Inverness Courier readers.  Pam Poston, Centre Manager, is encouraging everyone to vote for them. There will be a voting coupon in the supplement this week and then from next week voting coupons in five of the newspaper titles.

There is also an online voting link across our the Centre’s social media channels or you can click and register your vote using this link:

http://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/2019HeroesVote

Closing date is 26th October 2019.

As supporters and grant funder of the Centre we would also like to encourage you to vote; and for you to encourage your friends, family and colleagues to do so too. Not only is this positive recognition for an organisation in our community but it would mean a great deal to Service Users and staff.

Good luck Glen Centre!

Soirbheas Apprenticeship Grant Scheme
Deadline – 28th October 2019

We are pleased to announce that the Soirbheas Apprenticeship Grant Scheme is now offering local businesses up to £22,500 (over 3 years) to support employment of a modern apprentice. The scheme will pay a maximum of 80% in year 1, 60% in year two, 40% in year 3 of the wage costs. Plus, up to £1,000 towards equipment directly for the benefit of the apprentice.

The final amount awarded will vary depending on the age of the apprentice at the start of the apprenticeship, the needs of each business, the apprenticeship being undertaken and availability of other funding.

Priority will be given to businesses primarily based or who serve Glen Urquhart and or Strathglass and to young people who reside in either Glen Urquhart or Strathglass. Soirbheas may consider supporting young people coming to work in the community and young people from the community being employed as an apprentice outside the area on a case by case basis.
Early discussions prior to submitting any application is essential.

The next deadline for applications is 28th October 2019. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss a potential application.

Please click here for the Grant Leaflet

or for the full guidance and application form go to
https://www.soirbheas.org/apprenticeship-programme/.

Funding Drop-in Sessions
31st October 2019

If you would like to have a chat with Carol about Soirbheas grants or have a project to discuss, we are holding a drop-in funding session on Thursday 31st October,  at the Craigmonie Centre, Drumnadrochit  from 6.30pm – 7.15pm.

Please just drop in.

You can contact us at anytime for further information by email to [email protected]

Information on our grants can also be found here.

BEAULY AND GLENS HELPING HANDS BEFRIENDERS
Can you spare an hour a week?

Would you like to give someone in need a Helping Hand?
Can you spare an hour a week to help someone who is lonely or isolated?

We are delighted to introduce “Beauly and Glens Helping Hands Befrienders”.  This new initiative  serves Drumnadrochit, Glenurquhart, Strathglass, Beauly and surrounding areas, and is proudly funded by Beauly Cares and Soirbheas.

If you would like more information, to volunteer or know someone who would benefit from our service please get in touch.

email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01456 459 077
Glenurquhart Centre 31 Coiltie Crescent Drumnadrochit IV63 6TR

New Soirbheas Directors Needed!
Join our Team!
Would you like to give something back to your community?

Board Members work alongside our Community Development Officer to manage Soirbheas and help to distribute funding.

The charity works across the whole community and has now distributed over £170,000 of funds and is involved in numerous community development projects and initiatives.

We are particularly keen to recruit a new Board Member from Strathglass but would welcome new directors from either communities.

If you would like to support our work and learn more about becoming a board member visit
https://www.soirbheas.org/soirbheas-directors-vacancies/

contact Carol by email [email protected] or phone 0751 445 2783

or have a chat with one of our directors  https://www.soirbheas.org/staff-directors/.

Apprenticeship Drop-In
18th September 2019
5- 7.30pm
Balnain Hall, Glenurquhart

Soirbheas have funding available to support local businesses employ modern apprentices. You may be experienced or new to this way of employing someone, and we are here to support and give advise on how we can help.  This will enable you to identify what you need to do and prepare your application before our next deadline of  28th October 2019.

With over 80 frameworks (from agriculture to youth work) delivered by approved training providers, there should be something to suit many businesses.  Further details on the following websites:

Apprenticeship.Scot: https://www.apprenticeships.scot/for-employers/

Skills Development Scotland https://www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/what-we-do/apprenticeships/modern-apprenticeships/modern-apprenticeship-frameworks/

To book an individual half hour session with Carol or Nicky  please drop us an email at [email protected] 
If you can’t make this date we can arrange an alternative time.

For further information please see our information page: https://www.soirbheas.org/apprenticeship-programme/

Grant Deadlines Approaching
Tier 3 and Apprenticeships

Tier 3 – This is a two stage application for projects between £10,001 and £30,000.
Stage 1 – Expressions of Interest close on Thursday 19th September.
Applications which are approved at Stage 1 are invited to submit a full application (Stage 2) by the 30 January 2020.

Apprenticeships:  thinking of taking on a modern apprentice, age 16 – 24 ?  We could provide a grant to help with wage costs and equipment. There are over 80 Modern Apprentice frameworks which could be approved for funding for up to three years.
Submit applications by 28th October 2019

Tier 2 – Need help with a project between £501 and £10,000?  Up to 90% grant available.
Applications to be submitted by Thursday 21st November 2019.
Not quite ready, next submission date 20 February 2020.

Tier 1 – our rolling programme for express grants of up to £500.  No deadline as on-going application process.

See full details in our:
Grants section https://www.soirbheas.org/soirbheas-grant-programme/
Apprenticeships page https://www.soirbheas.org/apprenticeship-programme/

Please contact Carol to discuss your application before submitting:  [email protected]  Tel mobile: 0751 445 2783 

Community Consultation Event – Transport Solutions for Glen Urquhart & Strathglass
and Electric Car Test Drive  

 

A rural transport community consultation drop-in event is taking place on Wednesday 28th August in Drumnadrochit at Glen Urquhart Hall from 12:30 – 8pm, to gain feedback on transport solutions identified for Glen Urquhart and Strathglass.

Rural communities face huge challenges when it comes to transport. Soirbheas the community charity for Glen Urquhart and Strathglass is leading the exploration of solutions for the area.

This event aims to capture residents’ views on the potential transport options as well as exploring how these measures can be supported in the short, medium and long term.

Urban Foresight has been engaged to undertake a Transport Feasibility Study covering the Glen Urquhart/Strathglass area on behalf of the Charity. The study has identified the viability of different options that aim to improve the transport provision for both residents and visitors across the area. The community consultation event is an important stage in the research process to develop the transport solutions.

“We are keen to hear from anyone in our community who has an interest in public transport, community transport, green travel, reducing car usage, active travel and road safety, and would encourage them to come along on 28th to learn more about the proposals.”   Carol Masheter, Soirbheas Community Development Officer at Soirbheas.

Home Energy Scotland have managed to source a Hyundai Kona Electric to test drive. This will be available on a first come basis.  Important – For anyone who would like to take a test drive they must bring both their driving licence and the DVLA print out showing any endorsements on their licence.

For DVLA print out go to https://www.viewdrivingrecord.service.gov.uk/driving-record/licence-number

“The Transport Feasibility Study sets out some ambitious but deliverable options for improving mobility in the region. The opinions and buy-in of the local community are essential for turning these solutions into sustainable and workable realities” Paul Blakeman, Head of innovation at Urban Foresight.

For further information please contact Carol Masheter, Soirbheas Community Development Officer  [email protected]
tel: 0751 445 2783

Developing a Transport Feasibility Study for the area is a  direct action form the Local Energy Plan for Drumnadrochit – https://www.soirbheas.org/local-energy-plan/

Plugged-in Households – Grant Fund
Applications Open until 23 August

Offering a total grant pot of £500,000, the Plugged in Households grant fund will support Housing Associations and Community Groups establish 100% pure electric vehicle car clubs for use by tenants, staff, and the local community, ensuring that housing tenure or location is not a barrier to switching to low-carbon, flexible and affordable transport.

Building on Round 1 of the fund where over £515,000 was awarded to support the procurement of car clubs a cross Scotland, Round 2 is currently open for applications. With a deadline of 23 August, there is still time to get an application in. More details can be found at the webpage, or by contacting the team on 0131 555 8642/ [email protected]

Soirbheas Apprenticeship Grant Scheme Update and Deadline

We are pleased to announce that the Soirbheas Apprenticeship Grant Scheme is now offering local businesses up to £22,500 (over 3 years) to support employment of a modern apprentice. The scheme will pay a maximum of 80% in year 1, 60% in year two, 40% in year 3 of the wage costs. Plus, up to £1,000 towards equipment directly for the benefit of the apprentice.

The final amount awarded will vary depending on the age of the apprentice at the start of the apprenticeship, the needs of each business, the apprenticeship being undertaken and availability of other funding.

Priority will be given to businesses primarily based or who serve Glen Urquhart and or Strathglass and to young people who reside in either Glen Urquhart or Strathglass. Soirbheas may consider supporting young people coming to work in the community and young people from the community being employed as an apprentice outside the area on a case by case basis. Early discussions prior to submitting any application is essential.

The next deadline for applications is Thursday 2nd May 2019. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss a potential application.

Please click here for the Grant Leaflet or for the full guidance and application form go to https://www.soirbheas.org/apprenticeship-programme/.

Strathglass Community Fund

Strathglass Community Fund is inviting grant applications for the second round of the benefit payments, between 1st May and 31st July 2019. Applications will be assessed and scored in July and August. Grants will be awarded in August/September. Small grant payments can be made in August/September, larger payments will be made in October once the 2019 community benefit has been paid to us.

A total fund of £26,500 is expected for 2019. The majority becomes available during September and October. We will assess each application individually and endeavour to distribute funds fairly. There is no minimum or maximum limit on grant applications.

Our charitable objectives, a copy of the Dipper Grant application form and further information are available on the SACC website.

Current board members are:
• Claire Roberts (Chair)
• Roddie MacLennan (secretary)
• Sheena Thomson (Treasurer)
• Donald Fraser
• Liz Balharry

If you would like help or advice about your application please contact one of the board members or email [email protected] and a board member will get back

Soirbheas Apprenticeship Grant Scheme Update and Deadline

We are pleased to announce that the Soirbheas Apprenticeship Grant Scheme is now offering local businesses up to £22,500 (over 3 years) to support employment of a modern apprentice. The scheme will pay a maximum of 80% in year 1, 60% in year two, 40% in year 3 of the wage costs. Plus, up to £1,000 towards equipment directly for the benefit of the apprentice.

The final amount awarded will vary depending on the age of the apprentice at the start of the apprenticeship, the needs of each business, the apprenticeship being undertaken and availability of other funding.

Priority will be given to businesses primarily based or who serve Glen Urquhart and or Strathglass and to young people who reside in either Glen Urquhart or Strathglass. Soirbheas may consider supporting young people coming to work in the community and young people from the community being employed as an apprentice outside the area on a case by case basis. Early discussions prior to submitting any application is essential.

The next deadline for applications is Thursday 2nd May 2019. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss a potential application.

Please click here for the Grant Leaflet or for the full guidance and application form go to https://www.soirbheas.org/apprenticeship-programme/.

Transport Feasibility Study – Please help us!

Urban Foresight has been engaged to undertake a transport feasibility study covering the Glen Urquhart/Strathglass area on behalf of Soirbheas.  The project develops actions identified in the Local Energy Plan (LEP) for Drumnadrochit, such as a number of low carbon transport solutions. The study has secured CARES funding as well as support from The Highland Council.

The study will aim to identify the viability of different transport options with a view to improving the transport provision for both residents and visitors to the area.

Three surveys have been designed to capture residents, young peoples and visitors’ views on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the local transport provision.

Residents and visitors of all ages are encouraged to get involved by completing the survey appropriate to them by the end of July 2019.

The links are:

Thank you for your support!

Transport Survey – Please help us!

As you are hopefully aware one of the outcomes of the Drumnadrochit Local Energy Plan was to undertake a Transport Feasibility Study to highlight the transport challenges in Glen Urquhart and Strathglass and try to establish some workable solutions. Urban Foresight have now been appointed to develop the study, and ascertain the viability of the different solutions identified. We would be grateful if you could spare 10 minutes to complete this short survey, to help inform our research if you live or work in Glen Urquhart or Strathglass.

The short survey is available here.

A PDF version is available here.

Feel free to contact Kate Palmer ([email protected]) if you have any further questions about the survey or the project. Thanks in advance for your help and cooperation.

Soirbheas Photography Competition – Deadline Extended by 24 hours!

We are giving you an extra 24 hours to get your entries in to our 10th anniversary photography competition.  Why not check your phone or digital camera for suitable photos taken in Glen Urquhart or Strathglass over the past year?  Winning entries will receive a £50 voucher and £100 for a local group or club!

There are three Themes:
1. Our landscape and wildlife
2. Our community and activities
3. Our landmarks and iconic buildings

We are looking for entries from the following age groups:
1. 12 & under
2. 18 & under
3. Adults

Please submit your entries to [email protected] by midnight on Tuesday 18th June.  GOOD LUCK!

Entry Form
AGM Photography Competition Guidelines

Vacancy – Assistant Community Development Officer

Permalink – https://www.soirbheas.org/vacancy-assistant-community-development-officer/

For details of an exciting opportunity with us please click here.

Do You Love Your Tatties?

Local charity Soirbheas continues its quest to get the communities of Strathglass and Glen Urquhart to grow more! For the last 5 years, Soirbheas has delivered a Tattie Project, distributes over 2,000 seed potatoes to local schools and nurseries to be grown in the community. The project inspires children, families and the wider community to get growing and to eat more locally grown potatoes which are a cheap, versatile and nutritious food staple.

As part of the project Soirbheas is working with the Glen Urquhart Horticultural Society to hold its annual Tattie Sale Day on Saturday 2rd March from 2pm – 4pm in the Glen Urquhart Hall, Drumnadrochit.

With over 20 varieties of seed potatoes to choose from, along with tips on getting the best yields, advice on suitable varieties and how best to store and cook your tatties.

We would love you to bring along your favourite tattie recipes to share with others as part of our Great Tattie Recipe Swap which include a scrumptious Chocolate Potato Cake, a hearty Potato & Ham Soup and a tasty Potato Crusted Pizza!

This year we will be joined by Abriachan Forest Trust who will be cooking up some tasty tattie treats on an outdoor camp fire!

There will also be an opportunity to have a cuppa and chat with us after you have bought your tatties.
Whether you are new to growing or an old hand at gardening or just love tatties we are confident that this event will inspire you to grow your own tatties.

All proceeds from the sale of the seed potatoes will go towards funding other community growing projects in Glen Urquhart and Strathglass.

For more information on the event or a the list of available varieties please visit www.soirbheas.org or email [email protected]

Thanks go to Transition Black Isle for their on-going support with this project.

Funding Sessions – Soirbheas Grants

If you would like to have a chat with Carol about Soirbheas grants or have a project to discuss we are holding some funding sessions on Thursday 25th April at the Glen Urquhart Library from 6pm – 7.15pm.

To book a slot contact [email protected].

Information on our grants can also be found here.


Project Consultant Required for a Rural Community Transport Feasibility Study

Closing Date: 5pm 11th March 2019

We are seeking a consultant to undertake a Transport Feasibility Study with the following aims –

To identify viable options to improve public and community transport services and ultimately reduce car usage across the community area.

Consult with potential partners including the Highland Council and other local and community providers.

To improve links between the main communities in the area and to increase the use and availability of community transport.

Explore viable active travel options and identify solutions for decarbonisation of transport.

For the Transport Feasibility Tender Brief click here..

For further information please email [email protected]

Latest results on Corrimony wind farm

 


Beauly & Glens Helping Hands Befrienders: Co-ordinator Vacancy

 

The Tattie Sale Day is back for 2019!

Soirbheas Directors Vacancies

Soirbheas is a local community company and charity established in 2009 to invest in the communities of Glen Urquhart & Strathglass by distributing funding generated from renewable energy schemes. We are on a journey to make our communities a more attractive place to live, work and to protect our environment for future generations. The significant funds being raised from a range of renewable energy schemes are being invested within the community via grants and community development projects.

To support the charity in its next phase of activity, we are seeking applications from enthusiastic individuals with a passion for our area to join our diverse and capable Board. As a Director, you will be jointly responsible for ensuring that the Charity complies with its objectives and governing document as well as all relevant legislation and regulations. You will participate in Grant Assessment and use your skills and experience to assist the Charity in delivering its aims for the benefit of communities and groups across Glen Urquhart and Strathglass.

Joining our board provides an opportunity to serve your community and to give something back that benefit many groups and individuals in our area.

We are inviting candidates who reside in either Glen Urquhart and Strathglass to apply. We are particularly interested in attracting community spirited candidates with the following attributes and availability:

  • Good knowledge of the community/voluntary/charity sectors.
  • Good knowledge of the needs of our communities.
  • Good understanding of finance and governance.
  • Willing and able to commit the time and effort (only 10 meetings per year).

Meet the rest of the team!

For further information please contact the Carol Masheter, Soirbheas Community Development Officer – by email [email protected] or phone 0751 445 2783

Drumnadrochit Local Energy Plan – Can you help?

Further to the development of the Drumnadrochit Local Energy Plan in 2018, a delivery group is being formed to take forward the proposed actions which will help to address Energy Efficiency, Energy Generation, Transport and Smart Energy Systems in our community. A number of projects are already underway including a transport feasibility study and an improved heating scheme for the care centre. We are seeking enthusiastic individuals that are keen to making things happen and join the delivery group. The first meeting is on Wednesday 16th January 7pm at Craigmonie Centre.

For further information or for a chat about the group please contact Carol Masheter on 0751 445 2783 or email [email protected].

Rural Affordability Warmth Project – Benefits & Energy Advice Session

Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint?