Agenda Document Pack - East Kilbride Area Committee - 04/11/2025
South Lanarkshire Council · 4 November 2025
Back to East Kilbride Area Committee — 4 November 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Monday, 27 October 2025 Dear Councillor East Kilbride Area Committee The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the above Committee to be held as follows:- Date: Tuesday, 04 November 2025 Time: 14:00 Venue: Hybrid - Council Chamber, East Kilbride Civic Centre, Andrew Street, East Kilbride, G74 1AB, The business to be considered at the meeting is listed overleaf. Please note that, following this meeting, there will be a Members’ Awareness Session on Firework Control Zones Yours sincerely Paul Manning Chief Executive Members Archie Buchanan (Chair), Geri Gray (Depute Chair), John Anderson, Mathew Buchanan, Gerry Convery, Margaret Cooper, Monique Equi, Joe Fagan, Grant Ferguson, Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Elise Frame, Susan Kerr, Hugh Macdonald, Elaine McDougall, Kirsten Robb, Graham Scott, David Watson, Kirsty Williams 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of the East Kilbride Area Committee held on 26 August 2025 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 3 - 8 Item(s) for Noting 3 Education Scotland Report - Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class Report dated 15 October 2025 by the Executive Director (Education Resources). (Copy attached) 9 - 16 4 Education Scotland Report - Sanderson High School Report dated 21 October 2025 by the Executive Director (Education Resources). (Copy attached) 17 - 22 5 Community Engagement Team Update 2024/2025 Report dated 22 October 2025 by the Chief Executive. (Copy attached) 23 - 52 6 Forward Programme for Future Meetings Report dated 21 October 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 53 - 56 Item(s) for Decision 7 Community Grant Applications Report dated 21 October 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 57 - 60 Urgent Business 8 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Stuart McLeod Clerk Telephone: 07385 370117 Clerk Email: stuart.mcleod@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 2
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EAST KILBRIDE AREA COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Microsoft Teams and in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, East Kilbride on 26 August 2025 Chair: Councillor Archie Buchanan Councillors Present: Councillor John Anderson, Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Monique Equi, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Geri Gray (Depute), Councillor Susan Kerr, Councillor Elaine McDougall, Councillor Kirsten Robb, Councillor Graham Scott, Councillor David Watson, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors’ Apologies: Councillor Margaret Cooper, Councillor Joe Fagan, Councillor Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Councillor Elise Frame, Councillor Hugh Macdonald Attending: Community and Enterprise Resources K Lean, Programmes Manager Finance and Corporate Resources S McLeod, Administration Officer; L Wyllie, Administration Assistant Housing and Technical Resources C Graham, Area Housing Manager Social Work Resources C Borden, Fieldwork Manager Also Attending: Police Scotland Chief Inspector P Doyle 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the East Kilbride Area Committee held on 27 May 2025 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Local Policing Annual Update Chief Inspector Doyle, Police Scotland, delivered a presentation on the 2030 vision for policing which focused on:- safer communities less crime supported victims a thriving workforce 2 3
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Chief Inspector Doyle responded to members’ questions and, where information was not readily available, undertook to provide that to members. Chief Inspector Doyle was thanked for his informative presentation The Committee decided: that the presentation be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 6 August 2024 (Paragraph 3)] 4 Unpaid Work Presentation C Borden, Fieldwork Manager, Social Work Resources, delivered a presentation outlining unpaid work hours completed across South Lanarkshire between July 2024 and June 2025, and highlighted some of the recent work undertaken by the team to the benefit of the East Kilbride community. The presentation provided information on:- unpaid work data capture referrals actioned in the East Kilbride Area Committee area work completed by the young persons’ group and the wellbeing group the Positive Futures Group remote unpaid work projects other activity and work with local partners C Borden, Fieldwork Manager, having responded to a member’s question, was thanked for her informative presentation. The Committee decided: that the presentation be noted. Councillor Kerr left the meeting during this item of business In terms of Standing Order No 14, the Chair adjourned the meeting at 3.10pm and reconvened at 3.15pm 5 Annual Housing and Homelessness Update A report dated 28 July 2025 by the Interim Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an overview of key housing and homelessness service activity across the East Kilbride area in 2024/2025. The Council declared a Housing Emergency on 12 June 2024 in response to a significant and sustained increase in demand for homelessness services. Between 2020/2021 and 2022/2023, the Council experienced a:- 28% increase in the number of people applying for assistance due to homelessness 38% increase in the number of people recorded as homeless 101% increase in the backlog of urgent-need homeless households awaiting housing This report provided key information on housing and homelessness in the East Kilbride Area Committee area, including:- 4
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the stock profile and supply increases allocations and lets rent management homelessness Housing Services would continue to manage its housing stock and support tenants to sustain tenancies across the East Kilbride Area Committee area, with updates reported to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee. A further update would be provided to this Committee in September 2026. C Graham, Area Housing Manager, responded to a member’s question on an aspect of the report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of South Lanarkshire Council of 12 June 2024 (Paragraph 6)] 6 Participatory Budgeting Micro Grants Update A report dated 5 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted on the Participatory Budgeting Micro Grant Fund in relation to the Renewable Energy Fund. Following the decision of the Executive Committee on 21 November 2018, a micro grant fund of up to £5,000 per annum was made available to community councils, or equivalent approved organisations, to award and administer small local grants of up to £500. This initiative, originally established for 2 years, was extended beyond 2020/2021 following approval by the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee on 16 February 2021. In the year 2024/2025, a total of £20,250 in micro grant funding had been awarded to 6 community councils in the East Kilbride Area Committee area, as detailed in the report. The 2025/2026 micro grant allocations were being processed and paid to eligible community councils upon submission of the required documentation. By early July 2025, £5,000 had been awarded to Strathaven and Glassford Community Council for the period 2025/2026. Reminders had been issued to community councils who had not yet submitted the necessary paperwork for the current funding year. K Lean, Programmes Manager, advised that 2025/2026 grant awards had been made to the following community councils since the writing of the report:- Auldhouse and Chapelton Community Council Jackton and Thorntonhall Community Council Stonehouse Community Council The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of the Executive Committee of 21 November 2018 (Paragraph 19) and Minutes of the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee of 16 February 2021 (Paragraph 7)] Councillor Scott left the meeting during this item of business 5
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7 Forward Programme for Future Meetings A report dated 8 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted:- ♦ advising members of the forward programme for the meetings of the East Kilbride Area Committee to 16 June 2026 ♦ inviting members to suggest topics for inclusion in the Committee’s forward programme Following discussion with the Chairs of the 4 Area Committees, it had been agreed that a list of items proposed for consideration at subsequent meetings would be provided to afford an opportunity for members to inform the agendas of future meetings. The outline forward programme for the East Kilbride Area Committee to 16 June 2026 was attached as an appendix to the report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 27 May 2025 (Paragraph 8)] 8 Community Grant Applications A report dated 8 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on applications for community grant. The Committee decided: that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: East Mains Baptist Church SCIO, East Kilbride (EK/15/25) Purpose of Grant: Environmental project Amount Awarded: £570 (b) Applicant: Willow Club, East Kilbride (EK/16/25) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (c) Applicant: Black Women in Action (BWIA), East Kilbride (EK/19/25) Purpose of Grant: Equipment, administration and publicity costs Amount Awarded: £420 (d) Applicant: Stonehouse Senior Citizens’ Pavilion (EK/20/25) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (e) Applicant: East Kilbride Seniors’ Forum (EK/21/25) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £350 (f) Applicant: Strathaven Balloon Festival (EK/23/25) Purpose of Grant: Materials, equipment and temporary public entertainment licence Amount Awarded: £600 (g) Applicant: 17th East Kilbride Brownie Pack (EK/24/25) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Amount Awarded: £180 [Reference: Minutes of 27 May 2025 (Paragraph 10)] 6
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9 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 7
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Report Agenda Item Report to: East Kilbride Area Committee Date of Meeting: 4 November 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Education Resources) Subject: Education Scotland Report – Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise of the outcome of the inspection of Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class by Education Scotland inspectors [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Education Scotland report on Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class were inspected in April 2025 as part of a national sample of primary education. 3.2. As part of the revised inspection process, Education Scotland inspectors assessed the quality of learning, teaching and assessment, as well as the effectiveness of raising attainment and achievement within the school. In the nursery, they evaluated learning, teaching and assessment, alongside the progress being made by the children. 3.3. The inspection team analysed questionnaires issued to parents, pupils and to all staff. Inspectors observed class lessons and interviewed groups of pupils, including the pupil council, and staff. Members of the inspection team also talked to parents/carers and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. 3.4. The report by Education Scotland was published on 9 September 2025. 4. Finding of HM inspectors 4.1. Education Scotland made comment under the following headings:- School Learning, teaching and assessment Raising attainment and achievement Nursery Learning, teaching and assessment Securing children’s progress 3 9
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4.2. The particular strengths of the school and nursery class were identified as follows:- ♦ the reflective staff team across the whole school and nursery fosters a very positive learning environment. As a result, children are confident, curious, independent learners who are highly engaged in all aspects of school life ♦ Ably led by the headteacher in the school and nursery, including in the support classes, teachers and practitioners plan for children very effectively. This leads to challenging learning experiences which provide children with opportunities to succeed and to do their best ♦ Children make very good progress and achieve high levels of attainment in literacy and numeracy during their time in school 4.3. Education Scotland identified the following areas for continued improvement:- ♦ Staff should continue to support children in the nursery and primary to reflect on the skills they are developing through their learning 4.4. The evaluations awarded were as follows:- 4.5. As well as welcoming the strengths of the school and nursery, it should be noted that the areas for continued improvement are already being incorporated into the school’s improvement planning. 4.6. Education Scotland have intimated that they are confident that the school will be able to take forward the areas for improvement and will make no more visits in connection with this report. The school is in a strong position to be able to raise levels of attainment with a particular focus on closing the poverty-related attainment gap. 4.7. Additional inspection evidence can be accessed by clicking the following web link:- Crosshouse Primary School – HMIe Inspection Report 5. Employee Implications 5.1. None. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. None. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. None. 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no direct risks associated with this report which is provided for information only. Quality indicators for the primary school Evaluation Learning, teaching and assessment Very Good Raising attainment and achievement Very Good Quality indicators for the nursery class Evaluation Learning, teaching and assessment Very Good Securing children’s progress Very Good 10
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9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. There is no requirement to carry out an assessment in terms of the proposals contained within this report. 9.2. The content of Education Scotland reports are shared with parents and discussed at Parent Council meetings. Lindsay McRoberts Executive Director (Education Resources) 15 October 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Education and learning: inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Previous References None List of Background Papers Education Scotland Report of Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class, 9 September 2025 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please Contact:- Stewart Nicholson Head of Education (East Kilbride) Tel: 01698 454468 E-mail: stewart.nicolson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 11
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1 | Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8534225 © Crown Copyright 9 September 2025 Dear Parent/Carer In April 2025, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate visited Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class. During our visit, we talked to parents/carers and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. The inspection team found the following strengths in the school’s work. • The reflective staff team across the whole school and nursery fosters a very positive learning environment. As a result, children are confident, curious, independent learners who are highly engaged in all aspects of school life. • Ably led by the headteacher in the school and nursery, including in the support classes, teachers and practitioners plan for children very effectively. This leads to challenging learning experiences which provide children with opportunities to succeed and to do their best. • Children make very good progress and achieve high levels of attainment in literacy and numeracy during their time in school. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from South Lanarkshire Council. • Staff should continue to support children in the nursery and primary to reflect on the skills they are developing through their learning. 3 13
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2 | Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8534225 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the school’s work using quality indicators from How good is our school? (4th edition) and How good is our early learning and childcare?. Quality indicators help schools, local authorities and inspectors to judge what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each school, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well Scottish schools are doing. Here are Education Scotland’s evaluations for Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class Quality indicators for the primary school Evaluation Learning, teaching and assessment very good Raising attainment and achievement very good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our school? (4th edition), Appendix 3: The six-point scale Quality indicators for the nursery class Evaluation Learning, teaching and assessment very good Securing children’s progress very good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our early learning and childcare? Appendix 1: The six-point scale 14
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3 | Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8534225 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the early learning and childcare setting using the quality indicators from A quality framework for daycare of children, childminding and school- aged childcare. The framework supports settings, providers and inspectors to assess what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each setting, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well early learning and childcare settings are doing. The Care Inspectorate evaluations are also used by local authorities when considering how settings are meeting the national standard for funded early learning and childcare. The Care Inspectorate’s evaluations for the early learning and childcare setting are: Detailed evaluations Evaluation Key question 1: How good is our care, play and learning? very good 1.1 Nurturing care and support very good 1.3 Play and learning very good Key question 3: How good is our leadership? very good 3.1 Quality assurance and improvement are led well very good Requirements made by the Care Inspectorate for the early learning and childcare setting. As a result of this inspection, there are no requirements and no areas for improvement. During the previous Care Inspectorate inspection, the setting had no requirements and no areas for improvement. This letter and a more detailed document called Summarised Inspection Findings (SIF) will be available on the Education Scotland website at: Crosshouse Primary School | Inspection Report | Education Scotland 15
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4 | Crosshouse Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8534225 © Crown Copyright What happens next? We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection. South Lanarkshire Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools. Jacqueline Gallagher Jacqué Fee HM Inspector Care Inspector 16
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Report Agenda Item Report to: East Kilbride Area Committee Date of Meeting: 4 November 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Education Resources) Subject: Education Scotland Report – Sanderson High School 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise of the outcome of the inspection of Sanderson High School by Education Scotland inspectors [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Education Scotland report on Sanderson High School be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Sanderson High School was inspected in April 2025 as part of a national sample of additional support needs education. 3.2. As part of the revised approach to inspection, the Education Scotland inspectors evaluated the leadership of change, learning teaching and assessment, ensuring wellbeing, inclusion and equality and raising attainment and achievement. 3.3. The inspection team analysed questionnaires issued to a sample of parents, pupils and to all staff. Inspectors observed class lessons and interviewed groups of pupils, including the pupil council, and staff. Members of the inspection team also met parents and members of the local community. 3.4. The report by Education Scotland was published on 7 October 2025. 4. Finding of HM inspectors 4.1. Education Scotland made comment under the following headings:- Leadership of change Learning, teaching and assessment Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion Raising attainment and achievement 4.2. The particular strengths of the school were identified as follows:- ♦ Led by the headteacher and depute headteacher, staff work effectively to deliver a breadth of learning experiences across the curriculum. These relevant learning experiences impact positively on raising young people’s attainment and achievements 4 17
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♦ Principal teachers provide high levels of support for young people’s pastoral and learning needs. Staff teams work very well together to develop positive relationships with young people. This is leading to young people feeling safe, understood and included at the school ♦ Young people are confident and proud of their school. They take on leadership opportunities with pride and are respectful towards each other, staff and visitors ♦ Staff work well with partners to support young people in the senior phase to engage in meaningful learning experiences within the local community. Young people are developing their confidence which helps enable them to move on successfully to further education or training when they leave school 4.3. Education Scotland identified the following areas for continued improvement:- ♦ Senior leaders and teachers should continue to develop a consistent approach to high quality learning and teaching. They need to plan learning which is engaging and motivates all young people to learn ♦ Senior leaders should continue to support staff at all levels to become confident leaders. This will help staff to be more involved in improving the school ♦ Senior leaders and staff should continue to develop further their approaches to meeting the needs of young people with the most complex needs. This includes adopting a clear strategy for supporting young people attending the Anxiety Lowering Learning (ALL) provision in the school 4.4. The evaluations awarded were as follows:- 4.5. The school community are pleased with the findings of the inspection team and welcome the areas that they have identified for improvement, as these align with the school’s own self-evaluation. 4.6. Education Scotland have intimated that they are confident that the school will be able to take forward the areas for improvement and will make no more visits in connection with this report. 4.7. The Inspection report can be accessed by clicking the following web link:- Sanderson High School Inspection Report Education Scotland 5. Employee Implications 5.1. None. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. None. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. None. Quality indicators for the school Evaluation Leadership of change Good Learning, teaching and assessment Good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion Good Raising attainment and achievement Good 18
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8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no direct risks associated with this report which is provided for information only. 9. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. There is no requirement to carry out an assessment in terms of the proposals contained within this report. 9.2. The content of Education Scotland reports are shared with parents and discussed at Parent Council meetings. Lyndsay McRoberts Executive Director (Education Resources) 21 October 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Ambitions/Objectives Inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Get it right for children and young people Improve health, care and wellbeing Promote economic growth and tackle disadvantage Make communities safer, stronger and sustainable Achieve results through leadership, good governance and organisational effectiveness Previous References None List of Background Papers Education Scotland Report on Sanderson High School - 7 October 2025 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Stewart Nicolson, (Head of Education East Kilbride and Strathaven) Tel: 01698 454468 E-mail: stewart. nicolson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 19
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1 | Sanderson High School, South Lanarkshire Council, 8525749 © Crown Copyright 7 October 2025 Dear Parent/Carer In April 2025, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited Sanderson High School. During our visit, we talked to parents/carers and young people and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. The inspection team found the following strengths in the school’s work. • Led by the headteacher and depute headteacher, staff work effectively to deliver a breadth of learning experiences across the curriculum. These relevant learning experiences impact positively on raising young people’s attainment and achievements. • Principal teachers provide high levels of support for young people’s pastoral and learning needs. Staff teams work very well together to develop positive relationships with young people. This is leading to young people feeling safe, understood and included at the school. • Young people are confident and proud of their school. They take on leadership opportunities with pride and are respectful towards each other, staff and visitors. • Staff work well with partners to support young people in the senior phase to engage in meaningful learning experiences within the local community. Young people are developing their confidence which helps enable them to move on successfully to further education or training when they leave school. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from South Lanarkshire Council. • Senior leaders should continue to support staff at all levels to become confident leaders. This will help staff to be more involved in improving the school. • Senior leaders and teachers should continue to develop a consistent approach to high quality learning and teaching. They need to plan learning which is engaging and motivates all young people to learn. • Senior leaders and staff should continue to develop further their approaches to meeting the needs of young people with the most complex needs. This includes adopting a clear strategy for supporting young people attending the Anxiety Lowering Learning (ALL) provision in the school. 4 21
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2 | Sanderson High School, South Lanarkshire Council, 8525749 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the school’s work using four quality indicators from How good is our school (4th edition). Quality indicators help schools, local authorities and inspectors to judge what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each school, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well Scottish schools are doing. Here are Education Scotland’s evaluations for Sanderson High School Quality indicators Evaluation Leadership of change good Learning, teaching and assessment good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion good Raising attainment and achievement good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our school? (4th edition), Appendix 3: The six-point scale A more detailed document called Summarised Inspection Findings (SIF) will be available on the Education Scotland website at: Sanderson High School | Inspection Report | Education Scotland What happens next? We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection. South Lanarkshire Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools. Emma McFarlane HM Inspector 22
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Report Agenda Item Report to: East Kilbride Area Committee Date of Meeting: 4 November 2025 Report by: Chief Executive Subject: Community Engagement Team Update 2024/2025 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] ♦ provide the Area Committee background and an update on the work of the Community Engagement Team in East Kilbride between 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1 The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the progress highlighted in the report be noted. 3. Background 3.1. Neighbourhood planning activity was first initiated in South Lanarkshire in 2017, when the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board agreed to pilot the use of a new approach to neighbourhood planning. The aim of this work is to tackle inequalities and to improve outcomes for local people living in some of South Lanarkshire’s most deprived areas where poverty statistics are stark, enduring and stubbornly stuck. 3.2. Neighbourhood planning is a shared statutory duty under the Community Empowerment Act (Scotland) 2015, along with shared duties to meaningfully and proactively involve communities in addressing inequality. This is achieved through an area wide Local Outcome Improvement Plan called the ‘Community Plan’ in South Lanarkshire. 3.3. The Community Engagement Team was established in 2019 to develop community empowerment and participation on behalf of South Lanarkshire Council and deliver its duties within the CPP. 3.4. The team has co-produced 9 Neighbourhood Plans in South Lanarkshire’s areas that experience stubborn inequalities. A tenth plan, in East Kilbride South, is in progress. The CPP defines these areas as those featuring in the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) in the top 20% of deprived communities or higher. 3.5. Neighbourhood Plans engage residents at a more local level, where they can more meaningfully get involved in issues that affect them. 5 23
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3.6. The team also coordinates tackling poverty work for both South Lanarkshire Council and the CPP as well as provide a range of community capacity building and supports to further community empowerment more widely. These are outlined in the report below. 4. Neighbourhood Planning 4.1. At its meeting on 3 March 2021, the CPP Board agreed to develop new Neighbourhood Planning arrangements across South Lanarkshire. In the East Kilbride locality, the Council’s Community Engagement Team was asked to consider the areas of Crosshouse, Greenhills and Whitehills as the highest ranked neighbourhoods on the SIMD. 4.2. in East Kilbride, a stakeholder group was established in August 2023 which includes local community groups and third sector organisations alongside a range of local public sector partners. 4.3. Upon presentation of data analysis of the East Kilbride locality, the Stakeholder Group agreed East Kilbride South Ward is the boundary for the plan but that the door-step engagement should focus on the more deprived areas as requested by the CPP. Residents in these areas would be least likely to engage in other consultation methods. 4.4. An online survey opened on 31 October 2023 and door-to-door consultations in the Whitehills area took place between November and March 2024. 4.5. Thereafter, various pop-up events also took place across the East Kilbride South area to capture views of residents and engage them in the survey. These events were more effective in generating more responses. 4.6. Staff from the Community Engagement Team met with children at local primary schools in April 2024 to gather their experiences of living in the area and what they would like to see in the future. 4.7. By May 2024, a total of 781 community views were recorded in survey responses. 4.8. Heathy and Active, a third sector stakeholder group partner, undertook a further round of similar surveys in Greenhills. The ‘What matters to you?’ survey, generated a further 42 local views over the summer of 2024 and was incorporated into the evidence base. 4.9. In Spring 2024, this community experienced significant change when the local library and the community hall were announced as at risk of being closed and the hall offered an opportunity for a community asset transfer. This development created a new and pressing need for residents to come together and was the community’s focus during that year. 4.10. The hall is now under community management and is hosting a range of organisations, activities and services. The community participation around the asset transfer was a catalyst for increasing community participation in the East Kilbride South community and in the neighbourhood planning process. 4.11. Supporting the community through the asset transfer process helped to build relationships and increased participation of community residents in the neighbourhood planning stakeholder group. This resulted in the re-establishment of a Community-Led Stakeholder Group in September 2024. With 8 local groups and community residents joining the group alongside local service partners. 24
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4.12. During the summer 2025, the first Place Based Participatory Budgeting exercise took place in East Kilbride South to further support community development and community led activity around the planning process. 4.13. During this time, the stakeholder group also analysed the engagement information and identified themes of action and priorities local people wish to address in East Kilbride South. This analysis was due to be presented at a community event in October 2025, for verification and approval. 4.14. The themes identified through engagement that will be presented at the event are:- Outdoor green spaces Play Park improvements/ maintenance Community Activities Local economy Transport and connectivity Housing and Community Safety Community halls and community facilities Sporting activities and sporting facilities Cleaner Community Health and wellbeing 4.15. At this event and through an online survey, residents will be asked to vote on and rank the themes of action they feel should be prioritised in their Neighbourhood Plan. Residents will also be asked to identify actions that could be taken to address the themes and priorities. 4.16. This final engagement will complete the draft Neighbourhood Plan and corresponding action plan for adoption by the Stakeholder Group and for presentation to the CPP Board in December 2025. 4.17. Appendix 1 shares the accessible format annual report of the other 9 Neighbourhood Plans across South Lanarkshire. Next year, the East Kilbride South Neighbourhood Plan will be introduced in the report and will include information on the 2025/2026 Participatory Budgeting exercise. 5. Participatory Budgeting 5.1. Participatory budgeting (PB) is a key feature of neighbourhood planning. The funds are an empowerment tool used to meaningfully engage residents in neighbourhood planning priority areas, increasing local decision-making through fair, democratic process and encouraging community-led delivery of Neighbourhood Plans. The PB awards have been aligned to the delivery of the locally identified priorities that form the basis of the Neighbourhood Plans. 5.2. A significant investment was made in PB in 2024/2025 with nine Neighbourhood Planning areas benefitting from PB at the same time. This was the largest scale PB exercise undertaken to date. The East Kilbride locality had not yet completed its Neighbourhood Plan and piloted a different model. 5.3. A ‘Can Do Community Grant’ funding of £7,000 was made available for local groups to apply to through a PB process. This was hosted on behalf of the stakeholder group by third sector partner organisation - Healthy and Active. 5.4. The PB exercise was well supported with 3,480 votes cast from 1,160 people. 5.5. 8 local groups were awarded funding which are outlined in the table below:- 25
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Organisation Activities Award Amount Little Brains Little Brains ‘Unmasked’ group currently hosts 38 children per week with Additional Support Needs. This funding is to purchase resources to enhance the community space to make it more sensory friendly for children with Additional Support Needs who attend the group £1,000 Dementia Carers Funding to host quarterly coffee mornings open to the full community to attend. The aim of these coffee mornings is to actively involve people living with dementia and their family carers to ensure that they can be an active part of their local community £500 Waist Not Want Not To purchase heaters for the new community space in the former Greenhills Library, to provide a warm and safe space for the community. £1,000 Coffee and Chat A summer outing to Moffat for the members of the group, to give people something to look forward to. Lunch and socialising for the group to enjoy. £800 Dynamic Brass Funding to provide an 8-week programme for primary 4 and 5 aged children from schools in the Greenhills community to provide an opportunity to be introduced to music potentially sparking their interest in learning a musical instrument, whilst developing skills and enhancing their confidence. £950 Sew Not Wanted Funding to facilitate an additional evening class for participants to learn to mend and upcycle items, to support the rising cost of living crisis and encourage sustainability. The demand for the classes has been high with a long waiting list. £1,000 Craft for Wellbeing To support the ongoing costs of running the group for local people to enjoy. The group provides a supportive, inclusive environment for local people to come together to improve their mental health through creative activities. £1,000 Morphit Part award funding to provide a safe space for the community, which is inclusive, accessible and enables people to pursue a healthy lifestyle. This programme works towards improving physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. £750 26
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6. Can Do Community Fund 6.1. For neighbourhoods in the locality that do not have allocated PB funding, the ‘Can Do Community Fund’ was a one-year investment fund from South Lanarkshire Council. The funding aimed to address specific needs, and targets projects identified through consultation with local communities. The fund was open to all the East Kilbride locality that are not neighbourhood planning areas. 6.2. Successful projects and award amounts were agreed at the East Kilbride Area Committee meeting on 7 May 2024 and have all been paid to recipients:- Applicant Purpose of Grant Activities Amount awarded Stonehouse Business Association Part-Time Development Staff for Community Capacity Building Capacity Building with 50 local groups to increase funding and community impact of activities. Informed by feedback from community survey £5,160.00 Healthy and Active EK Connected Greenhills 2 Project engaging with the community on their priorities for future PB funding Addresses an absence of funding to support local PB aspirations and help support community capacity building. £10,000.00 East Kilbride CAB Strathaven Outreach Service Improved access to CAB services assisting Disabled and Vulnerable people in Strathaven. Needs identified by local residents and venues provided by churches. £7,600.00 Total East Kilbride Awards £22,760.00 7. Community Asset Transfers 7.1. During the previous year, the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) Liaison Officer received a total of 2 enquiries regarding land or property within this area. 7.2. A total of 5 full CAT requests were approved during this period: Dunedin Pitches, Stewartfield Hall, Tileworks Sport Facility and Murray Pitches EK (two competing applications). 7.3. A total of 3 one-year concessionary leases (formerly known as CAT Light) were also approved during this period: Calderwood Hall, Stewartfield Hall and Tileworks Sports Facility. Tileworks Sports Facility and Stewartfield Hall both progressed to full CAT applications, and it is anticipated that Calderwood Hall will be transferred via a full CAT application in due course. 8. Community Wish List 8.1. The Community Wish List is how local communities can make requests, or wishes, for specific support from council suppliers or contractors that will benefit their community and projects. 8.2. Communities register their requests for products, funds or services that they need to take forward activities in their community. Suppliers can choose from the list and 27
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offer to grant a wish. Our service matches the offers and the suppliers and work with the Council’s procurement team to ensure the social benefits are recorded. 8.3. While suppliers are making offers to communities through the Wish List, smaller local businesses that do not provide goods or services to South Lanarkshire Council, are also making offers or responding to wishes if they can. 8.4. A wide range of wishes have been matched, including design services, equipment, funds, food and supplies for gardens and activities, and even musical instruments. An example of a matched wish in East Kilbride for young footballers can be found on the South Lanarkshire View. Incoming Wishes Wishes Answered Total Value Hamilton/Blantyre/Larkhall 63 20 £8,825 East Kilbride / Strathaven 58 15 £9,723 Clydesdale 22 7 £11,568 Cambuslang/Rutherglen 42 19 £11,400 8.5. The table below provides details of the wishes granted in the East Kilbride locality:- Group Name Answered By What has been Received Value EK Community Foodbank McAvoys Financial donation £500 Climate Action Strathaven RACAM Litter picks £375 Strathaven Junior Parkrun Share Alike Storage boxes, bags, fruit and drinks £500 Coffee, chat and company AM Philips Financial Donation £125 The Village Centre Findel 20 Stacking Chairs £800 Agape Wellbeing Findel Tables/mats/washable paints and storage £800 South Park PTA Clyde paper and print Various stationary materials £2,700 MUM Group The Furnishing Service Sofa, rug, cushions £523 Blacklaw/St Kenneth’s Primary School ASN Lanes Group Financial donation £500 Drum EK Morna Robertson Become IT Support/Training £400 Strathaven Town Mill Theatre Arts and Heritage Centre JH Civil Engineering Financial Donation £500 Halfmerke Community Nursery Karing International Financial Donation £250 LEAP Project SLLC Furniture Donation £1,000 Share Alike ACL Hire Van Hire and Insurance £250 Dungavel Residents Group JH Civil Engineering Financial Donation £500 9. Period Positive in Community Venues 9.1. Period product distribution across South Lanarkshire continues to grow and expand with demand for products increasing each year since the start of the project in 2019. 28
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9.2. The table below shows the boxed products distribution per each of the four localities in South Lanarkshire. There are currently various locations in South Lanarkshire provided with products, either as emergency provision, bulk supply or reusable:- 10. Community Partnerships 10.1. Since 2023, four locality-level Community Partnerships have been formed, including the East Kilbride and Strathaven Community Partnership. 10.2. Since taking up post in December 2024, a new Community Partnership Development Officer (CPDO) has focused on growing the Partnerships by meeting with more than 200 people from partner agencies, non-profit groups, community councils and community organisations. This has helped highlight the platform's distinctiveness as a platform for local voices to work with all Community Planning partners to influence policy and decision-making that affects their communities. 10.3. Community Partnerships are entirely community-led and they act as an intermediary, building links between communities across the East Kilbride and Strathaven locality and the work of the South Lanarkshire CPP Board. They are supported by the CPDO. 10.4. The Partnership provides a vehicle for both community involvement and influence in Community Planning Partnership Board. 10.5. Community Partnership membership is formed of community councils, local Neighbourhood Planning groups and other community groups or organisations from across the East Kilbride and Strathaven locality. The Partnership is therefore mostly made up of volunteers and reports directly to the CPP Board. 10.6. The Partnerships act as a consultative group for both groups and residents in the area and contribute to service re-design and new service delivery proposals with partners as well as discussing and raising community views and topics to the CPP for consideration. 10.7. The CPDO has created an Improvement Plan for the Community Partnerships that are more established which is also serving as an action plan for the newer, establishing ones. Good progress is being made in all areas across 2025/2026:- Communications: Each Community Partnership now has their own identity and web pages have been developed for all Community Partnerships. Partnership’s receive monthly information updates on national policy and strategy and local activity and events of interest to their wider communities. Community Leadership: The East Kilbride and Strathaven Community Partnership is working towards identifying a strong community leader to represent the group as its Chair. The Chair participates as a member of the CPP Board and presents quarterly reports. Area Boxed Products Distributed Hamilton 8,373 Clydesdale 16,298 East Kilbride 8,354 Cambuslang Rutherglen 6,441 Services Delivered Locality Wide 12,686 29
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CPP Improvement Self-Assessment: East Kilbride and Strathaven did not take part in the Community Partnership Self-Assessment with the Improvement Service but will benefit from the actions and improvements that are now being developed from the outcomes that derived from Clydesdale and Cambuslang and Rutherglen Community Partnership areas. Engaging Young people: Work continues with key council leads who work with young people to develop a process for engaging with them at a local level. Ideas are being discussed, and arrangements will be made to have an event with young people to discuss their views on the inequalities that they experience and how we can work better together to enable change. Data and profiling: A review of the Neighbourhood Planning Profiles and Deprivation Profiles will take place across 2025/2026 as part of the Marmot Place Programme actions. Good Governance: All Community Partnership Terms of Reference documents are currently being established or reviewed by the partnerships. The Self-Assessment process has highlighted several areas for improvement in terms of supporting Community Partnership volunteers, including improving induction arrangements. Work has started to co-produce an induction process and materials for new members. Monitoring and reporting: The development of a Community Partnership Performance and Reporting Framework is a longer-term action and will be aligned with planned evaluation work and the development of the wider CPP Performance Framework. Statutory Remit: As part of the CPP structure, it’s important that the Community Partnerships are focused on tackling inequality, which is the primary purpose of the CPP. The CPDO always works to increase awareness of statutory CPP duties for the Partnership. Volunteers: A Learning and Development Survey has been developed to better understand the needs of volunteers and better support them to participate in the strategic role of the CPP from a very practical community perspective. A Learning and Development Plan will be created from the feedback for delivery with support from partners. 10.8. Current priority areas for discussion with the East Kilbride and Strathaven Community Partnership are:- ♦ An increase in litter and fly tipping ♦ Attention to potholes and pavement upgrades ♦ Questions around the process for Windfarm applications and how they can lobby against future applications ♦ Concerns around closures of churches and halls which is restricting areas for local meetings ♦ New build housing causing pressures on local health services and lack of Infrastructure ♦ The volume of traffic in Jackton and Thorntonhall has increased significantly ♦ Strathaven residents expressed concern about the future of their park ♦ Challenges surrounding bus and train timetables not connecting ♦ Cycle paths in East Kilbride ♦ Banking hubs needed as an alternative service ♦ Alternative service locations when libraries and post offices are closed permanently 30
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11. Tackling Poverty and Inequality 11.1. The team’s tackling poverty work continues across all four localities. Challenge Poverty Week (annually held in October) raised awareness of services and support for residents, including over 50 organisations attending the annual networking event and webinars/workshops held throughout the week with partners. 11.2. The Winter Wishes programme worked with four local foodbanks, as well as The Promises’ care experienced young people, to provide over 1,000 presents for children living in poverty in South Lanarkshire. 11.3. Another successful Welly Swap was undertaken with libraries allowing families and individuals to access free boots for Winter with Dignity. 11.4. The Financial Inclusion Network launched its monthly newsletter which has seen training opportunities for staff, job opportunities and information sharing. This is in addition to the 3 poverty sub-groups (Living Wage Group, Fuel Poverty Group and Digital Inclusion Group) which all now have individual terms of references, new chairs and ongoing action plans. 11.5. The ‘Money is Not the Only Problem’ booklet has been updated and shared across organisations and venues in South Lanarkshire. 12. Employee Implications 12.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 13. Financial Implications 13.1. There are no financial implications associated with this report. 14. Other Implications 14.1. There are no risk or sustainability issues associated with the content of this report. 15. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 15.1. There are no Integrated Impact Assessment or consultation implications associated with this report. Paul Manning Chief Executive 22 October 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Ambitious, self-aware, and improving Fair, open and sustainable Priorities We will work to put people first and reduce inequality We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress, and improve 31
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Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities People live the healthiest lives possible Previous References East Kilbride Area Committee - 7 May 2024 List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Jen Kerr, Community Engagement Manager Email: Jennifer.Kerr1@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 32
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APPENDIX 1 Neighbourhood Planning Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 If you need this information in another language or format, please contact us to discuss how we can best meet your needs. Phone: 0303 123 1015 Email: equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 33
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About the Community Engagement Team The Community Engagement Team in South Lanarkshire works closely with local people and organisations to make sure their voices are heard and their ideas help shape decisions that affect their communities. The team supports neighbourhoods to share what matters most to them, get involved in local projects, and have a real say in how services are planned and delivered. They also help bring people and organisations together, encouraging partnerships that tackle important issues like poverty and inequality, and supporting communities to take forward their own ideas and initiatives. About Community Planning The Community Planning Partnership (CPP) in South Lanarkshire is all about organisations and local people working together to make our communities stronger and better for everyone. It brings the Council, NHS, Police, Fire and Rescue, voluntary groups, businesses, and community members around the same table to focus on what really matters, like improving health and wellbeing, tackling poverty, creating safer neighbourhoods, and supporting opportunities for all. By listening to local voices and joining up services, the CPP helps shape positive changes that are led by the community, for the community. Neighbourhood Planning in South Lanarkshire Neighbourhood Planning in South Lanarkshire is a community-led process where local people come together to identify what matters most in their area, whether it’s better green spaces, safer streets, or support services. Through workshops, surveys, and local meetings, residents shape a clear set of priorities and ideas. These "Neighbourhood Plans" help guide local investment and influence the Council’s decisions making sure change happens in the places that matter, driven by those who live there. Participatory Budgeting Participatory Budgeting (PB) gives local residents a direct role in identifying priorities, making decisions, and allocating a portion of public funding. This approach has been implemented across all nine Neighbourhood Planning areas in South Lanarkshire, allowing communities to influence how money is spent in their local area. PB is a central element of neighbourhood planning, with funding used to support the delivery of neighbourhood plan priorities. The process is shaped and led by local people, following the principles set out in the Scottish Participatory Budgeting Charter. 34
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Blantyre Blantyre has a population of just under 17,000 residents. The town is well served by several active and well-established community and voluntary sector organisations who provide a wide range of opportunities for residents of all ages making a significant contribution towards community connectedness and community wellbeing. Organisations include, Terminal One who provide local youth services. Bonnie Blantyre, Friends of the Calder and Blantyre Soccer Academy who provide social and recreational activities, physical activity initiatives. David Livingstone Memorial Church host a Community Hub and High Blantyre Parish Church host. A Warm Welcome initiative mitigating social isolation and financial, hardship, and environmental improvement projects. Neighbourhood Planning in Blantyre has had a unique journey which started in 2019 with a community action plan co-created with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust. In 2021-2022, a new plan called Blantyre Futures replaced the community action plan. The plan was developed in partnership with local stakeholders and community groups along with South Lanarkshire Council’s Community Engagement Team. The Blantyre Futures Stakeholder Group was formed and is responsible for overseeing the delivery of the Neighbourhood Plan and the annual re-ranking of their plan's priorities to ensure that the plan continues to reflect what matters most to local people. Blantyre’s priorities 2024-2025 1. Youth activities 2. Greater community safety 3. Community activities 4. Covid recovery 5. Older people activities 6. Environmentally friendly 7. Community transport 8. Glasgow road and sopping facilities 9. Civic pride 10. Roads, traffic and parking. Progress made against the priorities • The Blantyre Futures Stakeholder Group continues to meet six weekly, taking forward local priorities. • Participatory Budgeting took place, fourteen community-led place based participatory budgeting proposals were submitted, four were fully funded, one was part-funded. • The Stakeholder Group have been exploring ways to encourage greater collaboration between existing groups in Blantyre and have ambitions to organise community-wide events to increase participation levels. Participatory Budgeting has enabled the community to take forward their own community priorities on youth provision and community safety and more community focused activities and events. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by Participatory Budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. 35
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Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Terminal 1 Provided winter clothing packs to young people 541 £1,400 1, 3 Blantyre Queen Bees Women’s mental health and wellbeing programmes 516 £4,000 1, 3 Blantyre Queen Bees Activities aimed at reducing isolation 514 £2,788 1, 3 Bonnie Blantyre Purchase of pyjamas, and a gift for each young for young people identified as needing a 'festive hug' 506 £4,000 3, 6, 9 Terminal 1 A volunteer development programme. Recruitment and training of volunteers, and support to deliver services in the local community. 480 £4862 (part funded) 1, 3 Case study Volunteer Programme Terminal one successfully secured £4,862 of Participatory Budgeting funds to deliver a volunteer development programme. This programme has had a huge impact on all of those who took part, building confidence, new skills, and creating invaluable volunteering experiences that have benefitted not just the participant, but the wider community too. “The training was great and I learned a lot. There is so much more to community work than I thought.” “I feel so much better after working at the clubs. I feel as if I have done good and made others happy”. 14 new volunteers were recruited to the programme and 21 new and existing volunteers received training. Training included an introduction to Terminal One and youth work, child protection, community mapping and the Youth Scotland awards. Police Scotland have also contributed by giving input on anti-social behaviour and their roles as Community Police. “It has given me a better idea about what goes on in the community. There is so much more to it than you think”. The volunteers also the got the opportunity to deliver groups and activities to young people in local communities and were supported throughout by experienced staff and volunteers. “I know that things like this are important for my future. I can now include this on my CV or college applications”. “I would like to be part of the Blantyre Youth Development Team so I can make decisions that will be good for my community”. 36
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Quotes • I was very concerned about the cold weather and worried that last year’s jacket didn’t fit her anymore. Thankfully Terminal One provided a jacket, hat/gloves and scarf for all my kids. Thank you so much”. Parent • “Terminal One gave me an adidas jacket and it’s the same as my mates”. Young person 16 • Blantyre Futures is beneficial in relation to linking in with partner agencies, establishing joint solutions to issues that impact on both the community and our organisations. It also provides a platform to hear from members of the community and what matters to them and how we can improve the area. Stakeholder Group Member Burnhill Burnhill is a small community located in Rutherglen, on the South Lanarkshire side of the border to Glasgow. It is part of Ward 12, Rutherglen Central and North, and has a population of around 3,300. The area is known for its strong community spirit, there are vibrant community groups who organise various activities for the community working tirelessly to promote community wellbeing and belonging. As the Neighbourhood Plan progressed the dedication and determination of local residents who were wanting to make a difference in their community and address priorities that had been identified came together to address a piece of local land which was overgrown and unusable, known locally as The Highbacks. Charitable status was gained in June 2024 meaning that the charity was then able to then secure a long-term lease with South Lanarkshire Council for the continued growth of the area which they have transformed into the inclusive community space open to all the residents to enjoy. Burnhill’s plan sets out priorities identified by residents and highlights the positive things going on for Burnhill Burnhill priorities 2024-2025 1. More leisure and social opportunities 2. Stronger and better communities 3. Physical environment and housing improvements 4. Play park and sports park improvements 5. Easier to get about/moving around 6. Greater community safety 7. More variety of shops/businesses 8. Better education, training and employment opportunities 9. Better financial wellbeing 10. Health improvements Progress made against the priorities • Continuous development of the Highbacks – sustainability projects, food growing opportunities ecofriendly initiatives • Opportunities to socialise outdoors • Young people were invited to participate in a nail technician course to encourage new skills and employment opportunity for local young people • Free community events – Easter party, Summer funday, Christmas fayre 37
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• MENDing minds men’s group is a new community initiative which has been providing local men a safe space to talk and support each other. This has been working towards the neighbourhood priority of stronger and better communities and health improvement as the group incorporate wellness into the core values of their project. • Parent Cafe run by the Nurturing Nook has hosted many themed events enjoyed by parents and toddlers in the community Below outlines the description of the projects funded by Participatory Budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Rutherglen Glencairn The ability to enter tournaments during the season by being able to supply medals and trophies to our team. Supported towards the high costs for bookings and other expenses. 313 £4,000 1 High Backs Training Hub Training room in High Backs provided the community to access Internet for 24 months, interactive Android TV for presentations, as well as providing devices for people to access for job hunting, benefit, learning courses and more. 260 £3,500 8 Men’s Group Men’s group allows local men the opportunity to get together to learn new skills as well as sharing skills. The group purchased equipment such as gardening, power tools that the whole community can benefit from. 258 £6,000 2 Rutherglen Universal Connection Support the community by giving six local young people the opportunity to participate in an accredited nail technician course, gaining qualifications that allow for job and career opportunities for our young people. 122 £450 (part award) 8 Case study On 24 September 2024, Community Planning Partners including South Lanarkshire Council’s Chief Executive Paul Manning, were invited to listen to a presentation from the Highbacks Youth Activism Committee around their survey findings gathering community safety insight from residents around how they feel regarding Rutherglen Main Street. There was some critical feedback to officers with a commitment to further support these findings. The Youth Activism Committee is a group of passionate young people who are working hard to make positive changes in their community. They are supported by the local community worker who supports the Highbacks development and is key 38
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to the incredible changes already achieved. The Youth Activism Committee with the Community Planning Partners and Lizzy McDonald. Cambuslang East Cambuslang East sets out priorities and highlights the positive things going on for our community of Cambuslang East as a whole ward as well as Circuit, Westburn and Halfway which are the Community Planning Partnership priority areas within Cambuslang East. The population of Cambuslang East is over 18,000, and it's a lively, diverse community that sits within electoral Ward 14. There is a lot of active groups and organisations that work in the community, who have been coming together to create vibrant, well attended events in the community, play park improvements, taking on local community assets through Community Asset Transfer to continuously work towards the neighbourhood planning priorities. The 10 Neighbourhood Planning priorities were set out through extensive community engagement. Cambuslang East priorities 2024-2025 1. Play park and sports park improvements 2. More leisure and social opportunities 3. More variety of shops/businesses 4. Stronger and better communities 5. Physical environment and housing improvements 6. Easier to get about/moving around 7. Better education, training and employment opportunities 8. Greater community safety 9. Health improvements 10. Better financial wellbeing Progress made against the priorities • Halfway fireworks event 2024, the community's largest annual event, gathered an impressive crowd with spectators from across South Lanarkshire, Glasgow and beyond attending to experience the show. • Halfway Hall free school uniform initiative helping families save money and encouraging sustainability. • Circuit Youth Club have been facilitating social opportunities for local young people and families by taking local families on trips such as Alton Towers. This has created an equitable opportunity within the community. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by participatory budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Parkview Primary School This provided the opportunity to take pupils and families out on day trips that they would otherwise be unable to do. This provided families excursions where children can go on trips with their families so that they are able to 465 £14,000 7 39
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experience these times together to build nurturing and attachment informed relationships. Parkview Primary School Facilitating mother and toddler group within the school for pre-school children of existing families and also for the wider Halfway Community. 475 £1,500 4 Fernhill Fernhill is a small community in Rutherglen that sits on the South Lanarkshire side of the border to Glasgow City Council and has a population of roughly 1,887. Rented properties are split between local authority and West of Scotland Housing Association. In the centre of the community there is a large multi-use modern community centre operated by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture in Fernhill which is a hub for local community groups. Fernhill has a very strong network of community volunteers who deliver a variety of activities for the community. Fernhill’s plan sets out priorities and highlights the positive things going on for our community of Fernhill identified by residents. Fernhill priorities 2024-2025 1. More leisure and social opportunities 2. Stronger and better communities 3. Physical environment and housing improvements 4. Play park and sports park improvements 5. Easier to get about/moving around 6. Greater community safety 7. More variety of shops/ businesses 8. Better education and training opportunities 9. Better financial wellbeing 10. Health improvements Progress made against the priorities • Fernhill open community meeting that meets monthly since February 2025. • Fernhill Kids Playscheme hosting many well attended trips and outings over the school holiday, including the Irn-Bru carnival and pantomime. • DJ equipment was purchased for by communities together for community use • Brand new football equipment was purchased. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by participatory budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Fernhill Soccer School Supporting the ongoing costs of the Fernhill Soccer School to keep the club free for families to use. 256 £5,000 10 Fernhill Playscheme Provided opportunities that families often wouldn’t be able to access by having 195 £5,000 1 40
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social outings throughout the year including access to residential stays. Fernhill Wednesday 9’s football Attempt to purchase goals to enable older people to have a smaller place to play. 175 £2,500 4 Communities Together Events to bring the keep the magic of Christmas alive by hosting Christmas events in the Fernhill Community Centre. 151 £1,450 (part award) 2 Case Study Fernhill soccer school was established in Fernhill over 14 years ago, providing free football activity in the local community. The soccer school was initiated to get local children and young people mixing in attempt to prevent anti-social behaviour and prevent gang culture. Through the determination of local volunteers, they undertook training, qualifications and created policies in which enabled the group to start offering football to the local community. A key part of this organisation has been the emphasis on providing free activity to the local children and young people in the community, fundraising to purchase kit and to provide fresh healthy snack to the participants. Having this continuous offer of free weekly football is important to the local community and is achieved through the hard work, determination and commitment of the local volunteers to keep this sustainable. Hamilton South Hamilton South Ward has a population of over 22,000 people, priority areas for neighbourhood planning activity are Eddlewood, Fairhill, and Low Waters. Although Neighbourhood Planning activity across the ward started in Summer 2023, Neighbourhood Planning in Fairhill had already begun. A local Stakeholder Group was formed representing residents, elected members and staff working in the area representing Community Planning partners. The Neighbourhood Plan for Hamilton South sets out ten priority themes using the plan created for Fairhill but widening its scope to cover all areas. Identifying targets to benefit both the individual and collective communities. Hamilton South has many community assets and a vibrant community infrastructure. local groups and organisations, who contribute to wider community wellbeing because their principal priorities are to promote improve community involvement, strengthen community spirit and connectedness. Hamilton South priorities 2024-2025 1. Physical environment 2. More leisure and social opportunities 3. Greater community safety 4. Easier to get about/moving around 5. More variety of shops and businesses 6. Housing improvements 7. Stronger and better communities 8. Better financial wellbeing 9. Health improvements 10. Better education, training and employment opportunities 41
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Progress made against the priorities • The stakeholder group continues to meet six weekly, taking forward local priorities. • The stakeholder group has created opportunities for members to widen networks, share resources and work together to influence and shape their communities • Participatory Budgeting took place. Six community led place based participatory budgeting proposals were submitted, five were fully funded, one was part-funded. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by participatory budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Eddlewood Activity Group The group underwent safeguarding training. Purchased IT equipment and arranged community outings and events. 660 £2,060 2, 7, 9 Eddlewood F.C. Purchase of a converted shipping container to establish a community café. 523 £7,000 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 St Elizabeth’s Primary School Delivery of a sports and physical activity programme for primary aged children 500 £2,000 2, 7, 8, 9, 10 St Elizabeth’s Primary School A community reading programme involving the school and wider community to promote a love of read 459 £2,500 2, 7, 8, 9, 10 Low Waters Community Group Refurbishment of toilets in Low Waters Hall a community asset transferred facility 333 £6,500 1, 2, 7, 9 Low Waters Lot Community Group Delivery of a 12- week Garden to Plate course at South Lanarkshire College. 252 £1,640 1, 2, 7, 9, 10 Case study Revitalising and improving community spaces for all Since successfully completing a community asset transfer from South Lanarkshire Council in July 2024, the Low Waters Community Group have shown exceptional dedication to developing Low Waters Community Hall. The group is a registered charity and they have taken on the responsibility for the management and maintenance of the hall, upgrading, repairing and maintaining the building. A lot of effort has also gone to involving individuals, community groups and potential user groups in the project. This is truly a volunteer led project that will bring huge benefits to Low Waters and surrounding areas. The group secured £6,931.63 place based Participatory Budgeting funding to renovate and upgrade the bathroom facilities in the hall. The group have subsequently secured a further £50,000 which will provide energy efficiency improvements. The renovation journey is well on its way! “The refurbishment of the hall will enable the Low Waters Community Group to secure essential facilities and services for the whole community. This is a great example of what people can achieve 42
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together, fostering growth and future success. The group are breathing new life into this valuable community asset.” Quote • “We received £2,500 of Participatory Budgeting fund to set up a reading project. We linked in with our local community to promote reading for pleasure amongst our children, families and friends of our school. We worked in partnership with local businesses, shops and establishments, our children were involved in helping to actively promote reading by reading, leaving book boxes in shops, hairdressers, church and library. We have created lending libraries across the school – in the front foyer, in the corridor and in the lunch hall. We have worked with cartoonists, authors, Robertson Homes, children and staff from feeder secondary school to help promote involvement in our reading project.” Headteacher St Elizabeths Primary School • “Garden to Plate was a 12-week course provided by South Lanarkshire College. The course offered theory and practical advice on horticulture and gardening. We also took part in a seminar at Edinburgh Botanic Gardens looking at work in the area of horticulture, as well as the social benefits of gardening and visiting gardens”. Low Waters Lot Community Group Member • We have purchased a used container to convert into Eddlewood Football Club Container Café for use during match days, tournaments and community days. We can have approximately 150 kids plus playing football and their parents on a Saturday morning. We hope the café will bring in additional revenue to the club and all profit will be invested to help maintain affordable football in a deprived area.”. Member of Eddlewood Football Club Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank is in the north-west of Hamilton and has a population of 7,051. Neighbourhood Planning began in the area in November 2017. The community group was established in early 2019 and since then they have been working alongside other stakeholders, bringing the Neighbourhood Plan to life, addressing priorities and making positive improvements. The area is known for its strong sense of community and benefits from a vibrant community and voluntary sector, creating positive opportunities, delivering activities and providing essential support around finances and wellbeing. Many groups in the area have a firm focus on tackling poverty and inequality. The role of the community group is to oversee the delivery of the plan, to assist with the annual re- ranking of the priorities in the plan and actively engaging with the wider community. To keep residents both involved and informed of progress. Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank priorities 2024-2025 1. Housing improvement 2. More leisure and social opportunities 3. Greater community safety 4. Better financial wellbeing 5. Physical environmental improvements 6. Better education, training and employment opportunities 7. Health improvements 43
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8. Stronger and better communities 9. Better employment and business opportunities 10. Easter to get about/moving around Progress made against the priorities • The HUB stakeholder group continues to meet six weekly, taking forward local priorities. • Housing providers have worked more collaboratively and with community groups • Local people are more connected and working in partnership with service providers • Participatory Budgeting took place. Sixteen community-led place based Participatory Budgeting proposals were submitted. Seven were fully funded and one was part-funded. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by Participatory Budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Supporting Our Community The purchase of a community defibrillator 310 £1,764 3, 7, 8 Hillhouse and Burnbank Youth Clubs - Terminal One Training to build capacity and empower young people, resulting in a youth development team being formed. 297 £4,362 6, 7, 8 Hillhouse Tenants and Residents Association Supporting the delivery of a community led food pantry, provision of food and other essential items 283 £5,105 2, 4, 7, 8 Hillhouse Tenants and Residents Association Purchase of a poly tunnel and gardening equipment 253 £6,500 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 St John Ogilvie High School – Parent Council Weekend supported study giving pupils free tuition ahead of national qualifications 249 £4,534.50 2, 6, 7, 8 (Local Resident) – Installation of Defibrillators Installation and purchase of two defibrillators for the Burnbank area 207 £2,000 3, 7, 8 17th Hamilton Brownies Purchase of uniforms and starter. 152 £915 2, 4, 8 Burnbank Community Hub Delivery of health and well- being mindful arts workshops 150 £3,120 (part funded) 2, 7, 8 Case study Supporting Pupils Reach Their Potential John Ogilvie High Schol Parent Council received participatory budgeting funds to deliver a weekend study programme. The programme offered young people a supported study space, staff led learning opportunities and guidance on planning and prioritising their studies. The overall aim of the weekend study programme was to encourage pupils be more confident in their studies and exams 44
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“I felt much better about my work. It’s easier to understand as I had study plans in place” S4 pupil. Pupils from Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank areas were prioritised for the programme. The sessions strengthened the relationships between the young people, teachers and their peers, and removed the financial barriers that are attached to private tuition. “The study sessions were so important for the pupils when preparing for exams and supported them in their learning. We know that families have also benefited from this programme as they may not have the means to pay for private tuition.” Parent council member”. The collaboration between the Parent Council and the school was simply incredible. The Parent Council helped set up for the session and provided stationary, snacks and drinks pupils. Terminal One Youth Centre also provided support to young people and families if this was required. Quote • I was worried about the training being too official but afterwards I felt okay saying what I thought and, that what I said mattered”. Terminal 1 Volunteer programme participant • “We used Participatory Budgeting funds to buy, build and kit out a 36 foot polytunnel. We are growing vegetables, fruits and flowers, we want to be able to grow in bulk to supply local people with free produce. Many of our volunteers don’t have a garden but have a love of gardening. They are sharing their skills and creating a welcoming place for everyone to enjoy”. Treasurer Hillhouse Link Tenant and Residents Association Strutherhill and Birkenshaw • Supporting Our Community applied for £1,764 of participatory funding to purchase a defibrillator. Hillhouse Parish Church agreed to have the defibrillator installed on their building. There was an additional cost for installation which both organisations split between us. SOC member Springhall and Whitlawburn Springhall and Whitlawburn has a population of approx. 3,414 people and sits slightly north of Cathkin Braes. In 2017, this neighbourhood was identified by the South Lanarkshire Community Planning Partnership (CPP) to test a new approach to Neighbourhood Planning. This work has its roots in the Community Empowerment Act (Scotland) which requires CPPs to develop Neighbourhood Plans with communities and make positive changes and improve outcomes where this is needed the most. In recent years, Springhall and Whitlawburn have benefited significantly from: • The East Whitlawburn Regeneration Plan. • The refurbishment of Springhall Community Centre and Library and Whitlawburn Community Resource Centre, both facilities provide a base for several local groups and organisations. • The community-led development of the Cage. The neighbourhood has a strong and thriving community and voluntary sector providing a range of services and activities for all ages. Including youth services, activities for pre-fives and for older people, opportunities for child and family learning, social and recreational activities as well as activities that promote physical activity, mental health and wellbeing. 45
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Springhall and Whitlawburn priorities 2024-2025 1. More leisure, recreation and social opportunities 2. Building stronger and better communities 3. Housing improvements 4. Greater community safety 5. Better financial wellbeing 6. Physical environmental improvements 7. Health improvements 8. Better employment and business opportunities 9. Better education and training opportunities 10. Easier to move around Progress made against the priorities • The Stakeholder Group continues to meet six weekly taking forward local priorities. • The group decided to make building community connections and promoting community participation a key priority. • Participatory Budgeting took place with eleven community-led place based Participatory Budgeting proposals being submitted. Six were fully funded and one was part-funded. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by participatory budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Future Communities Young people delivered extensive programme of free community events open to all resources were purchased including a projector, screen and a community movie licence. 1,133 £3,937.50 1, 2, 7 Whitlawburn Community Christian Fellowship Support the delivery of community lunches and events. 680 £920 1, 2, 5, 7 Our Place Our Plan, Skip into Action Hire of skips to help address fly tipping 606 £2,200 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 Whitlawburn Adult Support Group Adult support group in Whitlawburn 548 £1,500 1, 2, 5, 7 Age Active To promote programme of activities for older people, including seasonal events 513 £3,970 1, 2, 6, 7, 10 Whitlawburn Community Resource Centre Fitness Classes Fitness classes, hall hire and tutor fees 507 £1,025 1, 2, 5, 7 Whitlawburn Community Resource Centre Men's Group The development of a group aimed at bringing men together for social contact and activities 478 £1,947.50 (part funded) 1, 2, 7, 9 46
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Case study Future Communities, building connections and communities Future Communities are a volunteer led youth group. They received Participatory Budgeting funding to deliver a series of community events, activities and the purchase of equipment and resources for wider community use. The groups aim was to widening community participation, reducing poverty and loneliness. The events kicked off with a family Halloween disco followed by a series of free community events. The group purchased a community movie licence which enabled them to show movies at no cost to the community and a series of arts and crafts activities have also taken place. 155 individuals have participated in this project to date. “Families attended the movie night were so thankful to be able to spend time together, many struggle financially and cannot afford to go to the cinema. The free community movie night was an amazing opportunity” Future Communities Member “The free event has been great as this kept the kids off of the street.” Parent The group have created a welcoming safe space in their base at Whitlawburn Community Resource Centre this has helped remove barriers to involvement and make community connections and created stronger community networks. “I felt welcomed and included within the community centre and it was joyful to see so many families together having fun” Springhall and Whitlawburn Resident Future Communities have successfully secured the involvement of local businesses in what they do and have received donations for activities, such as the hire of a bouncy castle and provisions for a tuckshop at events, a local energy company supported a Santa drive. On top of all this, Future Communities have created a network of volunteers involving young people to older residents. Volunteers have not only gained confidence, but they have also shared skills and developed new skills as they work as a team and lead the way in organising and delivering community wide events and activities. Participatory Budgeting funds also allowed the group to purchase a range of equipment, community assets that other local groups can borrow. “The community asset list of equipment has enabled us to offer an alternative activity that ordinarily our own group could not provide. We borrowed the community projector and screen as well as the large speaker in order to run our event. This was mind-blowing especially as it was free” Local group member Quote • Our involvement in Neighbourhood Planning has been invaluable, not only as a way to stay informed about local developments, but also as a meaningful opportunity to build relationships and collaborate with others who are passionate about shaping our community". SLLC Springhall Library • "I voted for our senior’s group and a few other great projects too. Participatory Budgeting is a great idea, having a say on what happens in our area". Mary, Age Active member • We are so grateful to Whitlawburn Community Resource Centre, for applying for PB funding to help provide much needed resources like arts and crafts materials, new board games and also covering the cost of activities for our group including music therapy, baking and sports. Member Camglen Buddies 47
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Strutherhill and Birkenshaw Strutherhill and Birkenshaw is situated in the South of Larkhall and has a population of 3,554. The area was identified by the South Lanarkshire CPP in 2017 to test a new approach to tackling inequalities, empowering communities and improving outcomes for local people This work was established in line with Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 which requires the CPP to develop Neighbourhood Plans with communities to improve outcomes where they are needed the most. in 2018 extensive community consultation took place, residents identified ten broad priority themes for their area, and these themes form the basis the Our Place Our Plan Neighbourhood Plan. The Community Action Group was established in 2019 and since then the group have been leading the way and working with other stakeholders to bring their neighbourhood plan to life. The group has a key role in the delivery of the Neighbourhood Plan, annually reranking priorities to ensure they continue to meet local needs, they support participatory budgeting activity and engage with the wider community, to keep residents both involved and informed of progress with the plan. The area benefits from well-established and new groups that provide social and recreational opportunities for all ages. Including youth groups, a women’s guild, uniformed organisations, breakfast clubs and after school care, a community Hub as well as child and family focused activities. Strutherhill and Birkenshaw priorities 2024-2025 1. More leisure recreation and social opportunities 2. Greater community safety 3. Physical environmental improvements 4. Housing improvements 5. Health improvements 6. Building stronger and better communities 7. Better education and training opportunities 8. Better financial wellbeing 9. Better employment and business opportunities 10. Easier to move around Progress made against the priorities • The Community Action Group continues to meet monthly, taking forward local priorities. • The group are more engaged, connected and collaborating with service providers, they have pursued priorities identified by residents such as fly tipping, antisocial behavior, car parking, speeding, development of vacant land and land ownership, lighting for a MUGA. • The Brew and Blether, has been set up providing a focal point in the community, promoting opportunities for social contact and access to wrap around services, this is a community led initiative involving the Strutherhill Community Action Group supported by the community action group. • Participatory Budgeting took place with nine proposals received. Three were fully funded and one was part funded. 48
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Below outlines the description of the projects funded by participatory budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Craigbank Primary School Purchase of wo reading sheds offering school and community access to free books and a book exchange 307 £3,500 1, 5, 6, 7 Strutherhill and Birkenshaw Youth Project An extensive programme of social, recreational and educational activities for young people 256 £4,375.99 1, 5, 6, 8 The Machan Trust A child and family focused programme encouraging families to play, learn and grow together 224 £6,100.00 1, 5, 6, 7, 8 Skylark Secret Garden at Robert Smillie Memorial Primary The development of a community garden, to encourage a greater appreciate of green spaces. The garden will foster school and wider community involvement. 216 £5,000 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 Case study Machan Trust Kidz Klub and Imagination Hub The Machan Trust received participatory budgeting funds to provide a programme of group based after school activities for primary school children of varying ages. Fifty children took part and got the opportunity to enjoy crafts, cooking, environmental and recycling projects, Lego and various other activities. All activities were free of charge, and food was provided too at each session. The groups were run by trained staff and volunteers and attracted young people to take part in the Machan Trusts young volunteer programme. Using fun and interactive activities, the aim was to raise aspirations, develop social skills, and teach new skills, building strong relationships, encouraging resilience, making healthy choices, mental health support, socialising, and peer support. By providing a volunteering and employability programme. The Machan Trust improved the skills and employability prospects of volunteers two volunteers have moved into employment. One volunteer with disabilities has gained vital experience and confidence through volunteering. Four young people have taken up roles in a young volunteer programme and are progressing well. The children attending the younger group gained a lot of skills in teamwork and eco activities. The older group learned from a range of stem activities promoting teamwork, concentration, learning new skills, construction work, handling tools, understanding magnets and various other skills. Quote • “Participatory Budgeting enabled us to provide a full programme of activities for young people who might not have got the chance to do so due to cost. Over 60 young people aged 8 to18 have benefited from activities offered at Strutherhill and Birkenshaw youth project. We purchased more equipment and delivered activities focusing on mental, physical wellbeing and promoting healthier lifestyles. We also made improvements to the facility we 49
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meet in, making it more welcoming and comfortable space, we also cooked and prepared snacks together.” • “We received £4,300 from participatory budgeting to enable us to continue to develop Skylark Secret Garden, previously a piece of unused green space funding is helping create a community growing and sensory garden that can be enjoyed by all, now and in the future. We are very grateful to the Unpaid Work team for all their help in progressing our project”. Skylark Early Learning Centre and Robert Smillie nursery class • “We used the funds to purchase community reading sheds, we wanted to foster a love of reading by provide access to a quiet reading space and opportunities to book swap. We wanted to build links between the school and the wider community. 233 residents, young and old have been able enjoy our project and community members have really participated in this and enjoyed book swapping”. Craigbank Primary School Whitehill Whitehill is in North Hamilton and has a population of around 2,500 people. Over the past 20 years, the area has benefited from developments including social housing, a care facility for older people and a neighborhood centre. The Whitehill Neighborhood Centre provides an invaluable focal point for community activity and offers a base to Youth, Family, and Community Learning staff, Universal Connections and Child Care in the Community. The area benefits greatly from vibrant community groups and organisations, and their ongoing efforts contribute significantly to promoting community spirit, community connections and wellbeing. Whitehill priorities 2024-2025 1. Play park and sports park improvements 2. More leisure recreation and social opportunities 3. Stronger and better communities 4. Physical environmental improvements 5. Easier to get about/moving around 6. Better education, training and employment opportunities 7. Greater community safety 8. Health improvements 9. Better financial wellbeing 10. More variety of shops and businesses Progress made against the priorities • The Stakeholder Group continues to meet six weekly, taking forward local priorities. • Residents are more engaged, connected and collaborating with service providers, they have pursued priorities identified by residents such as fly tipping, antisocial behavior, land ownership, housing issues, bus service provision, and the reinstatement of a post box. • Ten community-led place based Participatory Budgeting proposals were submitted. Five proposals were fully funded and and one was part-funded. Below outlines the description of the projects funded by participatory budgeting, the amount awarded, the amount of votes received and the local priority this activity is working towards. 50
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Group / organisation Project activity Votes received Funding awarded Plan priority met Whitehill Activity Group 143 Delivery of a series of community events aimed at bringing the community together and strengthening community spirit 143 £3,000 2, 3, 8,9 St Pauls Primary School Parent Council 105 Afterschool activities aimed at promoting health and well being 105 £1,000 2, 3, 8, 9 Whitehill Activity Group 103 The group hosted six community breakfasts 103 £1,250 2, 3, 5, 8, 9 Whitehill Universal Connections 99 A community wide fun day was held 99 £2,250 2, 3, 8, 9 Active School 99 A sports club took place introducing primary aged children to new activities including archery 99 £2,000 2, 3, 6, 8, 9 Whitehill Universal Connections 75 Furnishing to create a relaxed space 75 £1,000 Part Funded 4 Case study Whitehill Community Fun Day – building community connections and community spirit. PB funding was used to cover the costs of organising and hosting a community fun day, this event was a joint venture between Whitehill Universal Connections, Whitehill Activity Group, Childcare in the Community, Bothwell Road Action Group and Whitehill community members. “The community fun day was fabulous thanks for all you do in our community“. Attended by 270 residents the event was all about celebrating community spirit and fostering a strong sense of community for Whitehill residents of all ages. “Great day, well done all“ Whitehill resident This intergenerational gathering created a unique space for sharing experiences, strengthening community bonds and highlighting the very best features of this neighbourhood. The people who live there, and the groups and organisations that work tirelessly and in partnership to bring people together. The programme on the day was amazing especially the entertainment and activities. Special attention was given to catering for all ages, abilities and interests and this ensured that everyone felt valued and got involved. “Brilliant loved it” Whitehill Resident Quote • “Our events, and the trip to the pantomime was open to all members of the Whitehill community, and created opportunities for people to meet, interact, and build relationships, combating social isolation and loneliness, while fostering a sense of belonging. We bought a karaoke and bingo machines which can be used at future events future community events”. Whitehill Action Group 51
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• “Building on the success of our recent community fun day, we are so committed to organising another one. To help us achieve this, we are actively exploring alternative funding avenues and initiating community fundraising efforts. We aim to secure the funds needed to bring the community together again”. Whitehill Community Fun Day stakeholder • “We worked with the national governing body, Scottish Archery to upskill the senior pupils who participated in an introduction to soft archery leadership course to offer them the opportunity to deliver soft archery in a community setting in a fun and safe way for the young people and allowing these sessions to potentially continue next year. A local archery club also supported the delivery of the sessions in the Whitehill Neighbourhood Centre.” Active Schools Co-ordinator, Whitehill Community Club Collaboration across all neighbourhoods Stakeholder Groups across all Neighbourhood Planning areas have been working collaboratively to develop a community safety card. This is in response to community safety being a key priority across all Neighbourhood Plans. The aim of the card is to promote public reassurance and public reporting. Priorities in Neighborhood Planning areas in 2025-2026 Neighbourhood Planning is being delivered using a solution focused, asset-based approach, building community confidence, increasing participation and bringing lasting improvements through community-led decision making. Neighbourhood Plan priorities for 2025-2026 include: • Reranking of all local neighborhood plan priorities. • Working with local neighborhood planning groups to develop their own action plan for the year ahead. • Delivery of Participatory Budgeting to all Neighbourhood Planning areas. • Identify opportunities for collaboration amongst all Neighborhood Planning groups. • Maximising funding opportunities. 52
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Report Agenda Item Report to: East Kilbride Area Committee Date of Meeting: 4 November 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Forward Programme for Future Meetings 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise members of the forward programme for the meetings of the East Kilbride Area Committee to 15 September 2026 invite members to suggest topics for inclusion in the Committee’s forward programme [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the report and the outline forward programme for the meetings of the East Kilbride Area Committee to 15 September 2026, attached as an appendix to the report, be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Following discussion with the Chairs of the 4 Area Committees, it was agreed that a list of items proposed for consideration at subsequent meetings be provided to afford an opportunity for members to inform future agendas. The outline forward programme for East Kilbride Area Committee to 15 September 2026 is attached, for members’ information, as an appendix to the report. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. There are no financial implications. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability or Environmental implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. There are no risk implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 6 53
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8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. The report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There was no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 21 October 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References None List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Stuart McLeod, Administration Officer Tel: 07385 370 117 E-mail: stuart.mcleod@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 54
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APPENDIX EAST KILBRIDE AREA COMMITTEE OUTLINE FORWARD PROGRAMME Meeting Date Item Responsibility 3 February 2026 Housing and Technical Resources’ Participatory Budgeting Housing and Technical Resources Routes to Work South (RTWS) Presentation Community and Enterprise Resources and RTWS Common Good Update Finance and Corporate Resources Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources 31 March 2026 South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) Update SLLC Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources 16 June 2026 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Presentation SFRS Playscheme Grants Finance and Corporate Resources Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources 15 September 2026 Community Engagement Update Chief Executive’s Service Annual Housing and Homelessness Update 2025/2026 Housing and Technical Resources Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources Note:- Education Scotland Inspection Reports will come to Committee as and when they are available 55
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Report Agenda Item Report to: East Kilbride Area Committee Date of Meeting: 4 November 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Community Grant Applications 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] request approval for the allocation of 4 community grants from the East Kilbride Area Committee 2025/2026 community grant budget [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: Drum EK (EK/25/25) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £900 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £900 Recommendation: £540 (60% of £900) Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (b) Applicant: EKRR Youth 2013 (EK/27/25) Purpose of Grant: Outing Identified Community Benefits: Our children and young people thrive Estimated Cost: £1,000 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £1,000 Recommendation: £300 (full amount for outing) Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (c) Applicant: EKBC Community CIC (EK/28/25) Purpose of Grant: Start-up costs - Equipment, administration and publicity costs Identified Community Benefits: Caring, connected, sustainable communities Estimated Cost: £300 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £300 Recommendation: £300 (full amount for start-up costs) Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee 7 57
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(d) Applicant: Duncanrig Rambling Club, East Kilbride (EK/29/25) Purpose of Grant: Outing, administration and publicity costs Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £330 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £330 Recommendation: £320 (full amount for outing + 60% of £30) Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee 3. Background 3.1. The Council operates a community grants scheme to support local constituted community groups and voluntary organisations. All applications require to be supported by a constitution, audited accounts or annual income and expenditure accounts, a bank statement, and confirmation that the group/organisation will adhere to the conditions of the grant award. Applications are invited continually throughout the year. 3.2. The main aims of the community grants scheme are to:- fund activities and projects which bring community benefit involve people in the community by bringing them together to enjoy educational, recreational, leisure and other community activities or to improve the local environment 3.3. Support can be provided for a range of activities including administration and publicity costs, purchase of equipment and materials, annual outings and entrance fees, start-up costs and special events. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. None. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. The current position of the community grants for the East Kilbride Area Committee area in 2025/2026 is as follows:- Total allocation for Community Grants £25,750 Community grants previously allocated £9,600 Community grants allocated in this report £1,460 Remaining balance £14,690 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The risk to the Council is that grant funding is not utilised for the purpose for which it was intended. This risk is mitigated by internal controls including audit procedures and conditions of grant agreement. 58
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8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. All the necessary consultation with the community groups has taken place. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 21 October 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places Caring, connected, sustainable communities Previous References East Kilbride Area Committee – 26 August 2025 List of Background Papers Individual application forms Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Jennifer Hilston, Clerical Assistant Ext: 4822 (Tel: 01698 454822) E-mail: jennifer.hilston@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 59
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