Agenda reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 15 August 2023
Back to Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group — 15 August 2023 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 8 August 2023 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the BUTE AND COWAL COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP will be held BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 15 AUGUST 2023 at 10:00 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BUTE AND COWAL COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP HELD ON TUESDAY 2 MAY 2023 (Pages 5 - 12) 4. COMMUNITY PLANNING Presentation by Community Development Officer 5. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE (Pages 13 - 18) Report by Committee Manager 6. TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE (a) Transport Update - Argyll and Bute Council (Pages 19 - 20) Report by Contract Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Public Document Pack
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(b) Access to Argyll and Bute (A83) Verbal update by Transport Scotland (c) Western Ferries Presentation by Managing Director 7. CLES - COMMUNITY WEALTH BUILDING Presentation by CLES 8. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Police Scotland Update (Pages 21 - 24) (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update (Pages 25 - 30) (c) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership - Public Health Update (Pages 31 - 34) (d) Live Argyll - Community Learning Services Update (Pages 35 - 36) (e) UHI Argyll Update (Pages 37 - 38) (f) Skills Development Scotland Update (Pages 39 - 42) (g) Opportunity for Verbal Updates 9. SHAPING PLACES FOR WELLBEING (Pages 43 - 46) Report by Community Link Lead - Dunoon 10. BUTE COMMUNITY COUNCIL - CONSULTATION EXERCISE Presentation by Jim Osborne, Bute Community Councillor 11. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Sandbank Community Development Trust (Pages 47 - 50) Presentation by John Park, Director 12. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report (Pages 51 - 54) Report by Chair of Climate Change Working Group (b) Friends of Glenan Wood Verbal Update by Friends of Glenan Wood
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(c) Progress on Argyll and Bute Climate Hub Update by Argyll and Bute TSI (d) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives 13. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 31 October 2023. Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group Reeni Kennedy-Boyle (Vice-Chair) Charles Dixon-Spain (Chair) Contact: Julieann Small, Senior Committee Assistant - 01546 604043
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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BUTE AND COWAL COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP HELD BY MICROSOFT TEAMS ON TUESDAY, 2 MAY 2023 Present: Charles Dixon-Spain (Chair) Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Ailie Law, Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council John McLuckie, Community Planning Partnership Lead, Argyll and Bute Council Kirsty Moyes, Community Planning Partnership Team Leader, Argyll and Bute Council Lucy Dunbar, Community Planning Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Ann Kennovin, Community Learning Worker, Live Argyll and Bute Council Marie Stonehouse, Argyll and Bute Climate Action Network Reenie Kennedy-Boyle, Fyne Futures Sheena Finlay, UHI Argyll Martin Gerrish, Grow Food, Grow Dunoon PS Eddie McGunnigal, Police Scotland Becky Hothersall, Shaping Places for Wellbeing, Improvement Service Councillor Gordon Blair Councillor Liz McCabe Councillor Audrey Forrest Ann Campbell, SURF Robert Trybis, Dunoon Gourock Ferry Action Group Rhona Grant, Community Learning Services, Live Argyll Samantha O’Connor, SSEN Karen Gill, Carr Gomm Rory Munro, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Sue McKillop, Scenic Sandbank Iain MacNaughton, Scenic Sandbank Sandy McLeod, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Stephen Kelly, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Tony McGloin, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Andrew Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter, Argyll and Bute Julian Calvert, The Lochside Press Chris Martin, Dunoon Observer 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and general introductions were made. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of: Lauren Worrell, NFU Scotland; Rhona Altin, Argyll College UHI; Jean Maskell, Sandbank Community Development Trust; Becs Barker, Carr Gomm; and John Weir, Bute BID. Page 5 Agenda Item 3
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2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Meeting of the Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group held on 7 February 2023 The Minutes of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group meeting held on Tuesday 7 February 2023 were approved as a correct record. The Committee Manager outlined a number of changes to the membership of the Group. The Group noted the changes to the contacts for some organisations and approved the updated membership. 4. IMPROVING LIVES IN ARGYLL AND BUTE Consideration was given to a presentation by the Council’s Community Planning team on their recent consultation ‘Improving Lives in Argyll and Bute’. The presentation included information on the promotion of the consultation; the support provided for non-digital participation and Community Groups and the responses received from the survey. It was noted that the top three priorities were transport and infrastructure, housing and community wellbeing. Information on how the information collated from the consultation would be used to progress the 2023-2033 iteration of the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan (ABOIP) was also provided. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Community Planning and Development Team, Argyll and Bute Council) 5. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE Consideration was given to a briefing note which provided information on matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee, held on 23 March 2023. The Committee Manager outlined a number of key highlights from the meeting including the Child Poverty Report; the work around financial Inclusion; the community wealth building audit and the digital communities work. Decision The Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group considered and noted the briefing note. (Reference: Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 2 May 2023, submitted) Page 6
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6. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Police Scotland Update Consideration was given to an update which included information on the ongoing work of the Service and provided information on road safety; the relaunch of the Dunoon and Rothesay Police Scotland Youth Volunteer (PSYV); fraud prevention; an Emergency Services Day planned in Dunoon and the roll-out of Naloxone to officers in Argyll and West Dunbartonshire which is near complete. Discussion took place in relation to the new shift patterns proposed for the Bute and Cowal Area. Sergeant Eddie McGunnigal advised that all shift patterns are posted on Police Scotland’s website. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Police Scotland, submitted) (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ4 review of local performance across Bute and Cowal for the period 2022-23. The report included information on the local firefighter training plan; incidents during this time period; unwanted fire alarm signals; road and water safety campaigns; community engagement activities; East and West Dumbartonshire and Argyll and Bute Local Senior Officer Activities and home fire safety. Decision The Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted) (c) UHI Argyll Update Consideration was given to an update by Sheena Finlay, UHI Argyll. The update provided information on an open day held on the 28 March; Scottish Apprenticeship Week; courses being offered and funding which was awarded to allow them to employ a science, technology, engineering and mathematics Lego Facilitator to work with Primary schools. The Group noted that UHI Argyll are currently seeking non-executive directors to join their board of Governors with applications closing on the 12 May. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. Page 7
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(Reference: Report by UHI Argyll, submitted) (d) Scenic Sandbank Update The Group gave consideration to an update by Scenic Sandbank which highlighted that they had been awarded funding from the Scottish Land Fund to purchase vacant ground in Sandbank for a community garden. It was advised that they had produced a booklet at the start of the year which contained a survey in which they got 48 responses with everyone looking forward to the new garden. It was noted that Scenic Sandbank are participating in the Keep Scotland Beautiful initiative again this year and are encouraging the community join in. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group: 1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. noted that in the absence of a representative from Scenic Sandbank, any questions could be forwarded to them following the meeting and any responses circulated to the Group. (Reference: Report by Scenic Sandbank, submitted) (e) Argyll and Bute Council's Community Development Team Update Consideration was given to an update from Ailie Law, Community Development Officer at Argyll and Bute Council. The update included information on assessments which are currently being undertaken for Argyll and Bute Council’s 2023/2024 Supporting Communities Fund which closed for applications on 30 March 2023. The Group noted that recommendations would be made to Elected Members at Area Committees in June for consideration on which organisations would receive funding. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted) (f) Live Argyll - Community Learning Services Update The Group gave consideration to an update from Rhona Grant and Ann Kennovin Live Argyll - Community Learning Services. The update provided information relating to youth work in the area such as the Friday night football 7 week programme which ran in February and March; the Easter GIVE programme; the collaboration with Dunoon Grammar School on 2 school programmes and the Scottish Youth Parliament Elections which are being held in November. Page 8
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The update also provided information on the continuing work on the SAWA New Scots/Refugee project in Bute. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Team Leader – Community Learning Services, Live Argyll, submitted) (g) Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Update Consideration was given to a quarterly update from Argyll and Bute Citizen’s Advice Bureau which provided statistical information highlighting the rise of clients and advice being given by the Bureau in 2022/23 compared to 2021/22. The update also provided information on the recruitment of volunteer advisors and the advice and support CAB can provide. Partners noted that they could participate in a survey and give their views on the work that the Bureau does in the community, which could be found at: Argyll and Bute CAB Community Partner Survey 2023 (smartsurvey.co.uk) Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group: 1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. noted that in the absence of a representative from the Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau, any questions could be forwarded to them following the meeting and any responses circulated to the Group. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute Citizen’s Advice Bureau, submitted) (h) Opportunity for Verbal Updates Dunoon Area Alliance Community Development Trust Ann Campbell provided the Group with a verbal update which included information on funding which the Trust had received from the Scottish Government Investing in Communities Fund Round 2 and from the National Lottery Community Fund. Ann highlighted that the funding will cover posts for 3 years with recruitment under way for 1 full time and 2 part time posts. It was added that once the Manager is in post they will be working with Partners to look at developing a Local Place Plan for Dunoon. 7. SHAPING PLACES FOR WELLBEING Page 9
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Consideration was given to an update by Becky Hothersall, Community Link Lead for Shaping Places for Wellbeing Dunoon The update provided information on Data gathering on inequalities in Dunoon and Place and Wellbeing assessments. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Community Link Lead, Shaping Places for Wellbeing, Dunoon) 8. ARGYLL AND BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP PUBLIC HEALTH ANNUAL REPORT The Group considered a public health report on the ongoing wellbeing and prevention activities overseen and delivered by the HSCP Public Health Team in Argyll and Bute. The Interim Health Improvement Lead presented a number of key messages from the 2022 annual report of the Director of Public Health on Prevention. The full report can be found at:- NHSH DPH Annual Report 2022 (adobe.com) Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Interim Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, submitted) 9. HOME ENERGY PLANS Consideration was given to a presentation by Samantha O’Connor from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN). The presentation included information on who SSEN are; what a Home Energy Plan is and the benefits of having one; support and help available through the Priority Services Register and the benefits of joining. It was also highlighted that SSEN have partnered with Home Energy Scotland (HES) to offer customers free and impartial expert energy efficiency advice. The Group noted that Communities could apply for up to £20,000 of funding for building resilience in the community through SSEN’s Annual Resilience Communities Fund which would be opening for applications within the next 2 months. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Regional Customer Relationship Manager, SSEN, submitted) 10. COMMUNITY FOCUS Page 10
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(a) Grow Food, Grow Dunoon The Group considered a report by Martin Gerrish on the Grow Food, Grow Dunoon Project. Martin advised that the project is being delivered in collaboration with Dunoon Community Development Trust and Kirn Primary school and that there are now 8 volunteers with more wanting to join. Information was also provided on school pupil’s involvement and on their highly productive food growing approach. It was highlighted that last year the group had grew enough food to sell and made over £600 selling locally and at farmers markets. It was noted that a short video and slide show of pupils talking about their experience in the garden could be found at: www.thegrowfoodproject.co.uk Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Martin Gerrish, Grow Food, Grow Dunoon, submitted) (b) Dunoon Gourock Ferry Action Group (DGFAG) Consideration was given to a presentation by Robert Trybis from the Dunoon Gourock Ferry Action Group. Mr Trybis highlighted that Dunoon to Gourock was the first car ferry service in Scotland and that should the service be reintroduced it would be a profitable one. Mr Trybis advised that the area suffered from poor connectivity due largely to the uncertainly of the Rest and Be Thankful and the lack of integration between the existing ferry services and the rail network. It was the contention of DGFAG that the economy and population of Dunoon was suffering as a result with many young people choosing to leave the area to study rather than commuting to and from the area. It was noted that the DGFAG hoped that if the service was to remain as passenger only that the vehicle service would be put out to tender in the near future. Reeni Kennedy-Boyle advised of a HITRANS consultation, which could be found at https://hitrans-case-for-change-consultation-stantec.hub.arcgis.com/ Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group:- 1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. requested that the Committee Manager relay the concerns of the Group regarding the lack of a car ferry to service to Dunoon to the next meeting of the CPP Management Committee. (Reference: Verbal report by Robert Trybis, Dunoon Gourock Ferry Action Group) Page 11
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11. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report Consideration was given to a report which highlighted the ongoing work of the Climate Change Working Group. The report outlined the proposal to produce a strategic Action Plan as a means to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute; the approved governance arrangements to support the Climate Change Project Manager post and the ongoing work on the recruitment of a Project Manager. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group: 1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. noted that in the absence of a representative from the Climate Change Working Group, any questions could be forwarded to them following the meeting and any responses circulated to the Group. (Reference: Report by Chair of the Community Planning Partnership Climate Change Working Group, dated 27 April 2023, submitted) (b) Climate Action Hub Consideration was given to a presentation by Marie Stonehouse, Argyll & Bute Regional Network Engagement Coordinator, Scottish Communities Climate Action Network (SCCAN). The Presentation included information on the definition of regional networks; Marie’s role as Regional Network Engagement Coordinator; events attended by the network in the local area; the network hub; and upcoming events. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Verbal report by Argyll & Bute Regional Network Engagement Coordinator, Scottish Communities Climate Action Network) (c) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives There were no verbal updates provided under this item. 12. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Chair thanked everyone in attendance at the meeting, and thanked all partners for their continued proactive work in the community. The Group noted that the next meeting of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group would take place on Tuesday 15 August 2023. Page 12
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 15 August 2023 Community Planning Partnership Management Committee Update This briefing relates to the meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee which was held on 22nd June 2023. The briefing is for noting and relevant discussion. Summary HIGHLIGHTS Matters Arising from Area Community Planning Groups An update was provided on the discussions which had taken place at all 4 Area Community Planning Groups during the April 2023 cycle of meetings. The Management Committee were advised that the utilisation of hybrid meeting equipment in Helensburgh and Lomond (HL) and Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands (MAKI) continues to be positive. The Community Planning Partnership Management Committee recognised the issues raised by the Dunoon Gourock Ferry Action Group and would request clarification on the specific ask from the Bute and Cowal ACPG as it mentions that it wants to see ‘action’ from the Management Committee however it’s not clear what action it wants to see in reference to this matter. If deemed appropriate as a next step, the Community Planning team could facilitate a discussion between the Chair of the CPP Management Committee, the Chair of Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group and the Chair of the Dunoon Gourock Ferry Action Group. The CPP Management Committee met on the 22nd June 2023 with the meeting being held virtually. This update provides an overview of the discussion which took place. Reports which were discussed at the meeting can be found by following this link - Agenda for Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership - Management Committee on Thursday, 22 June 2023, 10:00 am - Argyll and Bute Council (argyll-bute.gov.uk) Page 13 Agenda Item 5
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The Management Committee is also interested to know more about any existing community partner involvement regarding this issue within the Bute and Cowal area. Transport Infrastructure is one of the top three priorities identified through the consultation process earlier this year which will feed in to the forthcoming focus group discussions to help inform the new 10-year Outcomes Improvement Plan. The Area Community Action Plan for Bute and Cowal will also be updated in 2024 and there will be opportunities to discuss transport issues in Dunoon and surrounding area within that engagement process. CROSS CUTTING THEMES Climate Change Stan Philips provided a presentation in addition to his paper on Addressing the Climate Emergency in Argyll and Bute project by the Climate Change Working Group (CCWG). Consideration was also given to who should sit on the Climate Change Steering Group (CCSG) which will manage the climate change action plan project over the next two years. Mr Philips advised that, once established, the CCWG would manage the function and support the CCSG, continue to seek funding, monitor the action plan and continue to report progress to the CPP Management Committee. Cllr Currie added that the Council had declared a climate emergency and was open to suggestions on what else the Council could be doing to be more involved in this. It was also noted that Stan intends to step down as the Chair of the CCWG once the climate change action plan project is established. Financial Inclusion Fergus Walker highlighted the range of work being delivered around financial inclusion, including Scottish Welfare Fund, Discretionary Housing Payments and School Clothing Project. Mr Walker advised that he is looking to further enhance data matching to better identify communities in particular need and that a 2 year project is about to start in partnership with the Poverty Alliance and the Third Sector to evidence local and national factors that affect poverty. Community Wealth Building (CWB) Takki Sulaiman advised that work was being taken forward on a CWB - Audit, Strategy and Business Plans with CLES having been appointed as consultants. The plans will look at the five pillars of CWB (plural ownership of the economy, making financial power work for local places, fair employment and just labour markets, progressive procurement of goods and service and socially just use of land and property). Page 14
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The work CLES are being asked to do has been divided into lots: Lot 1 is an audit of existing best practice and a mapping exercise against each of the five pillars, Lot 2 is to identify case studies that can be replicated across Argyll and Bute and identify opportunities relevant to our local and strategic plans, Lot 3 is the development of a CWB strategy and action plan, and Lots 4 and 5 are the development of 2 business cases and models to move actions forward in two areas (proposed to explore a business model for Community Energy and a food hub but the final focus will be determined by the audit and mapping exercise). Digital Communities Alex Edmonstone provided an update on the CLD Partnership, advising that Digital Skills is a key theme in the 3 year strategy. As such, a digital work stream group has been created to look at digital inclusion and complete a mapping exercise. Alex also advised that a pilot to provide free Wi-Fi access (dongles) to those with an identified learning need in Helensburgh had gone well and it was hoped this could be rolled out across a wider area. Iain MacInnes advised the R100 fibre roll out is progressing in Argyll and Bute, with installation currently being undertaken at Ardfern. Unfortunately, the roll out had experienced delays due to lack of accommodation available for contractors. As part of the Shared Rural Network Infrastructure programme to install 4-5G in rural areas, the Argyll and Bute area is due to have 50 new mobile masts installed. Iain advised that this is a considerable investment in the area to target partial and not spots in network coverage. Three have gone live and there are 18 more at the planning stages across the area. Digital Hubs have been installed and are operating on Iona and Islay and drop in sessions have been organised to show residents how the hubs work. Digital hubs are also planned for Coll and Tiree but there have been some supply issues that have delayed the start of work at those sites. Building Back Better Kirsty Moyes detailed the successful structures and ways of working with the community that have been developed since the start of the pandemic and gave an overview of the engagement undertaken with communities. This included regular meetings, peer to peer working, targeting funding to meet needs and the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan consultation. Kirsty also outlined what is happening in partnership work on the identified themes with recommendations on how to progress on gaps and building this work with communities going forward, taking learning from the positives and challenges during that time. Page 15
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DEVELOPMENT OF NEW OUTCOME IMPROVEMENT PLAN John McLuckie provided an update on the ongoing work on the new Outcome Improvement Plan, specifically the top 3 themes (Transport Infrastructure, Housing and Community Wellbeing). John advised that the themes had been discussed in detail at a CPP Management Committee Development Day in Arrochar on 18 May 2023. This was followed up with a survey which was circulated to all partners to complete to gather intelligence and insight on the top themes. Output from the Development Day included the preference to meet in person and extended meetings as required to deep dive into topics and to create a steering group to direct the creation of the ABOIP over the next few months. The steering group would ideally look to be in place by July / August consisting of 3 - 4 members of the CPP Management Committee, focus groups would happen in September / October and then the data will be analysed before the ABOIP is published in November / December. UPDATE ON WIDER PARTNERSHIP WORK David Adams-McGilp, VisitScotland Regional Director, Argyll and the Isles, and Cathy Craig, CEO Argyll and the Isles Tourism Co-operative, gave a presentation on the VisitScotland Action Plan and the current state of tourism in Argyll and Bute. David explained the outcomes of the national plan are across four strategic outcomes: SPREAD includes easing visitor number pressure in certain areas and encouraging/promoting visitors to areas with more capacity and looking at extending the traditional visitor season. There is work ongoing on how to measure how successful this strategy will be and David noted that Scottish tourism is still in a post Covid recovery and growth phase. SPEND covers public and private investment in our tourism facilities, destinations and experiences to improve visitor experience in Argyll and Bute. SUSTAINABILITY is a key part of the action plan and the current Scottish Government Tourism strategy and the National Strategy For Economic Transformation (NSET) both share a commitment to destination net zero. SATISFACTION looks at ensuring positive local attitudes to area tourism using community engagement, visitor management, the rural tourism infrastructure fund and industry / tourist satisfaction. It is important that communities do not have development imposed upon them but that they are part of the planning to make the most of local assets. Cathy gave an overview of the tourism industry in Argyll and Bute, advising that the value of the local tourism market had not recovered post pandemic with visitor numbers down with continued negative effect to local businesses. The 2023 visitor Page 16
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survey is currently underway and although tourism is making progress, this year’s market is looking to be more depressed than last year, with over half of businesses surveyed in the area saying they were struggling financially. In 2023 a new area tourism website was launched and there had been various marketing campaigns to attract visitors to the area, especially to boost low visitor numbers in Mid Argyll and Kintyre. Recruitment of staff within businesses in Argyll and Bute remains a critical challenge. On a positive note, interest in our area is high and funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise had enabled the recruitment of a travel trade expert who represented Argyll and Bute at national exhibitions and secured sign up by 21 new travel operators to add Argyll and Bute destinations to their itineraries. ARGYLL AND BUTE HOUSING EMERGENCY Cllr Robin Currie notified the Management Committee that the Council had declared a housing emergency and encouraged all partners to attend a Council housing summit that is due to be held in October / November to agree action on how this can be addressed. Morag Goodfellow, Highland and Island Enterprise, added that as housing had been identified as a priority in the ABOIP consultation this can be taken forward by the CPP Management Committee via the Strategic Housing Forum. For further information, please contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council (01436) 657605 Stuart.mclean@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 17
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 15 August 2023 Transport Update – Argyll and Bute Council The School and Public Transport team are very busy preparing for the return of schools across Argyll and Bute. Included in this are: o Revisions to the West Cowal services formerly operated by Tighnabruaich Service Station, to account for the increased number of pupils attending Tighnabruaich Primary School. o Revisions to the timings of the bus from West Cowal to Dunoon Grammar School/Hostel, following feedback from education and parents, to allow more time for pupils to get into the Hostel, drop bags and get to the school. o Allocation of more resources on the 489 (Ardentinny – Dunoon – Toward and vice versa) at school times to account for the increase in pupils travelling from the Toward end of this service this academic year, whilst still allowing for the additional seating capacity serving Milton. Milton pupils are not entitled to free school transport due to being well within the safe walking distance to school. However, the popularity of Under 22 cards has produced a capacity issue on services coming from and heading to Toward, especially on inclement days. The dedicated call centre team in Berwick for handling Pingo calls continues to operate, and is reportedly busy with in general, older repeat customers – the demographic we hoped this new team would capture and assist. Multiple bus stops identified in the greater Dunoon area with weather damaged flags, rusted poles, and timetable cases in a poor state of repair. We are working through this list with our bus stop contractor to get these replaced this financial year. For further information please contact: Martin Arnold, Contract Officer, Argyll and Bute Council 01546 604418 - martin.arnold@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 19 Agenda Item 6a
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POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE Partners Intelligence Portal Police Scotland is committed to Keeping People Safe. Our priority is on the protection of those at risk of harm through prevention, early intervention and the robust investigation of those who pose such a risk. We are committed to working with our Partners in the public, private and third sectors to ensure our approach to Public Protection is focused, meaningful and collaborative. This commitment allows us to continually improve the service and support provided to victims and their families, whilst working towards protecting those at risk of harm. Crimes such as child sexual abuse, human trafficking, sexual offences or domestic offences are often concealed from authorities, and may have occurred recently or in the past, all of which contributes to challenging, complex and sensitive enquiries. It may be that our partners have information which could be vital in contributing to a bigger picture. As part of our commitment and drive to improve, we are expanding the use of the Partners Intelligence Portal (PIP) through awareness and training to relevant organisations. PIP is a secure and confidential electronic system, developed by the Police Service to enable partner agencies to share important information they receive during the course of their work. This portal provides capable partners with the means to securely and discreetly submit key information, whilst maintaining safeguards which protect the source of the information. PIP is an information collection portal, and does not replace current incident or crime reporting methods, in particular the mechanism for child or adult referral. PIP is a tool which should enhance the procedures already in place for all. The information provided through the PIP portal will be dealt with as intelligence by Police Scotland. Intelligence is the useable form of information which has been subject to recognised processes to risk assess and determine how freely it can be used. This process is aimed at developing information around the threat, risk and harm posed by perpetrators and locations. By trying to capture what you already see, hear and know it will provide invaluable opportunities to target those who pose risk and protect those at risk of harm. The key aim is to provide a safe and secure pathway for Partner Agencies to share information that they believe the police need to know about in the investigation and prevention of crime. This training has been delivered to a number of housing associations in Bute and Cowal and we will continue to roll this out wider. If you require any further information please contact ArgyllDumbartonshireCommunityEngagementTeam@scotland.police.uk Emergency Services Day An emergency services day was held on Saturday 17th June at Dunoon Grammar School where a range of partners came together and invited along the community to meet their local service providers and enjoy the day. Police Scotland Community Engagement Team and the mounted branch attended along with partners in Ministry of Defense Dog Branch who provided displays to demonstrate their training and abilities. HM Coastguard demonstrated their life savings skills and Scottish Fire and Rescue hosted a range of displays including chip pan fires and how to prevent these. The day was well attended with local businesses providing refreshments as well. Page 21 Agenda Item 8a
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Youth Engagement Citizenship Day took place at Dunoon Grammar School which involved two days of water safety inputs including a live exercise. The Partnership Approach to Water Safety (PAWS) Group were consulted to ensure consistency of messaging. Agencies in attendance throughout the two days included Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service, RNLI & HM Coastguard. There is an appetite to conduct further joint working in the future in order to continually improve local working partnerships. The event was well publicised in local media outlets as well as social media. The newly established Dunoon Police Scotland Youth Volunteer Group deployed at Sandbank Gala. This was the Dunoon groups first deployment which was extremely positive and enjoyed by all. Positive interactions with members of the public and other emergency services personnel. Confidence already being gained by the young people, a proportion of whom are from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds. Further deployments included the Emergency Services Day at Dunoon Grammar School and the 2 day deployment at the Argyll Rally. Feedback from organisers and rally teams has been extremely positive. Mull Car Club are in the process of preparing certificates for presenting to Youth Volunteers in attendance in recognition of their involvement. Our Youth Engagement Officer has attended Kirn Primary, Dunoon Primary and Lochgoilhead Primary Schools where inputs have been provided to senior pupils in respect of drug/alcohol/vape use. Inputs have been provided to pupils from Tighnabruaich Primary School on road safety and particularly around the use of e-scooters by children in the community. This was in response to complaints from members of the public in recent times. Move In May Congratulations to the over 2,000 Police Scotland staff who competed in this year’s challenge by running, cycling, participating in Copstrong classes, and more! Unfortunately Argyll and West Dunbartonshire’s Divisional elite athletes didn’t quite make the top 10, however congratulations to 3 local teams who took home the local Gold, Silver and Bronze awards and earned themselves a gift card for their efforts. Progress Pride flag completes its journey around Argyll and West Dunbartonshire Division for Pride Month Page 22
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The Progress Pride flag has reached the end of its journey around Argyll and West Dunbartonshire Division, with Chief Superintendent Lynn Ratcliff being the final person to add their signature as an ally to mark Pride Month. The flag made its way around all of the offices in the division throughout June to allow all colleagues the opportunity to become allies if they wish to do so by signing the flag thereby helping to drive change by challenging negative attitudes and outdated stereotypes. It started its tour of the area on 1st June when our Equality, Diversion and Inclusion lead CI Ryan McMurdo became the first signatory to pledge his allyship. Pride Month is an annual celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT+) pride. It began after the Stonewall riots, a series of gay liberation protests in 1969, and has since spread outside of the United States and around the world. The modern-day Pride Month both honours the movement for LGBT rights and celebrates LGBT culture. It is also a great opportunity for us all to show our support for LGBT+ officers, staff and communities and to challenge LGBT+ discrimination internally and externally. One of the themes of this year’s Pride Month is allyship. An LGBT ally is any police officer, member of staff or special constable who advocates for and champions LGBT+ colleagues in the workplace. Anyone can become an ally, whether you are part of the LGBT+ community or not. A recent Scottish Government report found that one in four hate crimes in 2020-21 involved a victim who was a police officer and in almost half of crimes experienced by police officers, the perpetrator showed a prejudice towards the LGBT+ community. It’s important we don’t underestimate the impact this has on our LGBT+ colleagues. Chief Supt. Ratcliff said: “My vision is for L Division to be the most inclusive area in Police Scotland, where our officers and staff feel a true sense of belonging and our communities feel supported, listened to and have total confidence in the service we deliver for them. It has never been more important for us to demonstrate our support for LGBT+ officers, staff and communities and I am proud to add my signature to the flag as a visibly ally.” Page 23
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Keep Safe in Bute and Cowal A further Keep Safe business has been trained up in Bute and Cowal. Fyne Homes join our list of amazing community businesses and organisations who commit to supporting vulnerable people through the award winning Keep Safe Initiative. Interested businesses or groups have background checks carried out to ensure they are suitable and then have face to face training to learn about Keep Safe. From there they are issued with business packs including a window sticker to proudly display to let anyone passing know they are a Keep Safe place. If you are interesting in learning more please visit https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/keep-safe-scheme/ Page 24
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Bute, Cowal and Dunoon CPG Briefing Report Q1 2023/24 Performance & Activity Report From: 1st April 2023 To: 30th June 2023 Page 25 Agenda Item 8b
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Introduction Welcome to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Community Board Performance Report. This performance report is designed to provide citizens, stakeholders and partners with information relating to Community Board based activity undertaken by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Whilst using historic statistical benchmarking data, consideration must be taken of the somewhat random nature of fire related incidents and events, and how this can pose difficulties in interpreting emerging patterns and trends. This is of specific relevance where Community Board level data is analysed due to the relatively small number of actual incidents/events that occur in Community Board areas. However, regardless of statistical anomalies, emerging patterns and trends in fire related incidents and events can assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Community Planning Partners plan and implement preventative intervention initiatives to target reducing fire related incidents and events. Local Firefighter Training Plan Below is a list of subjects the operational crews have been focusing on within this period. Each subject has been covered both practically and theoretically and recorded in the Fire Service Training recording system. Training Subjects April /May/June CFBT Tac Vent Casualty Care RTC and Extrication Knotts, Ladders & Pumps Marine Firefighting Page 26
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Accidental Dwelling Fires (ADF) Ward 3 Year Average 2022/23 2023/24 Cowal 2 2 0 Dunoon 1 0 2 Isle of Bute 1.3 0 1 Community Board Total 4.3 2 3 ADF Casualties Ward 3 Year Average 2022/23 2023/24 Cowal 0 0 0 Dunoon 0 0 0 Isle of Bute 0 0 0 Community Board Total 0 0 0 Deliberate Secondary Fire Setting Ward 3 Year Average 2022/23 2023/24 Cowal 1.3 1 1 Dunoon 2.7 1 2 Isle of Bute 3.7 5 2 Community Board Total 7.7 7 5 Page 27
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Fires in Non-Domestic Property Ward 3 Year Average 2022/23 2023/24 Cowal 0.3 1 0 Dunoon 0.7 0 2 Isle of Bute 0.7 1 0 Community Board Total 1.7 2 2 Casualties from Non-Fire Emergencies Ward 3 Year Average 2022/23 2023/24 Cowal 2.7 5 3 Dunoon 1.7 4 0 Isle of Bute 1 3 0 Community Board Total 5.3 12 3 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals Ward 3 Year Average 2022/23 2023/24 Cowal 8 12 7 Dunoon 10.7 14 10 Isle of Bute 14 16 12 Community Board Total 32.7 42 29 Page 28
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Incidents/Activities of Note Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) We’re continually working with partners and targeting our top offenders, which are Education including Infant/Primary/Secondary Schools, and Residential/Care Homes. A new UFAS mobilisation policy has been devised by a dedicated project team within SFRS with an aim at reducing UFAS Incidents further. This policy is now live from 1st July 2023 and should result in a reduction of unwanted fire alarm signals. Road & Water Safety campaigns We’ve been working alongside Police Scotland, Loch Lomond Park Rangers and various other Partners across all sectors, engaging with the local community at various identified hotspots. We provided advice and literature relevant to Road & Water Safety (including drug and alcohol misuse and ASB). We have maintained a presence through Operation Ballaton meetings, allowing us to provide attendance of operational crews to support Loch Lomond Park Rangers, at specific hotspots in the park across busy summer weekends. Community Action Team and LALOs have received training input on the use of VR Headsets in preparation for delivering Road Safety lessons. Community Engagement Activities Post Domestic Incident Response (PDIR) following every domestic incident Fire, Water & Road Safety provided to schools and local community groups with practical demonstrations using new interactive scenario floorboards. Continue to deliver Fire Safety advice via HFSVs and provision of smoke detection Representation on Multi Agency Risk Assessment (MARAC) for those affected by domestic violence Continue to support ‘Make the Call’ campaign and On Call recruitment drive for retained and volunteer stations within Argyll and Bute Supporting Partnership Approach to Water Safety (PAWS) group and engaging with the public: #RESPECTTHEWATER campaign. Engaging with communities utilising Spring/Summer Thematic Action Plans TAP Victim support referral pathway set up Careers engagement pathway delivered to all schools for fire service employment EWDAB LSO Activities • Continued roll out of new fleet SFRS Electric Vehicles and on-station charging points within the area • Beginning of training sessions on new Virtual Reality headsets in preparation for road safety awareness within the community • Ongoing On-call recruitment campaigns – Participation in Practical Selection Tests for new candidates as well as successful completion of Task and Task Management by new On-call Firefighters across the area. • Watch Commander Chris Spence joined EWDABs Community Action Team as one of our Local Area Liaison Officers • Completion of multi-agency training exercise “Antonine” at Craigend Quarry, Mugdock Park. Utilising personnel from across the EWDAB area. • Congratulations to Tarbert WC Dennis on completion of his fundraising bike ride from Carlisle to Cramond Beach. A fantastic total of over £2000 has been raised so far. Page 29
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• In May WC Tony McGloin attended DYW Argyll and Bute Opportunities for young people and employers conference at Queens Hall, Dunoon. The event allowed partners from various sectors to discuss opportunities for young people across Argyll & Bute. Home Fire Safety As part of our commitment to building a safer Scotland we offer everyone in Scotland a free home fire safety visit. We'll help you sort out a fire escape plan and provide information about smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms. For a Free Home Fire Safety Visit, please: Call 0800 0731 999 Text "FIRE" to 80800 from your mobile phone. Twitter link: https://twitter.com/abewdhq Page 30
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1 Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership Area Community Planning Group Partnership update Date: August 2023 Partner update – Public Health The paper provides an update on ongoing wellbeing and prevention activity overseen and delivered by the HSCP Public Health Team in Argyll and Bute. Public Health Intelligence Saskia Schmitz has now joined the Public Health team in Argyll and Bute as Public Health Intelligence Specialist. The Public Health Intelligence team (PHIT) are part of the Public Health Directorate and provide an expert resource on epidemiology, demography and population health evidence. A key piece of work for the PHIT has been developing profiles for the four community planning partnerships in Argyll and Bute. Saskia is currently contributing to the Children’s Health and Wellbeing Profiles Project, which aims to illustrate central aspects of the health and wellbeing of children and young people in the NHS Highland board area. The Children’s Health and Wellbeing profile reports will present an overview of indicators relevant to the health of children in each partnership area. Going forward, Saskia will support PH projects and will work closely with the NHS Highland Health Intelligence team. Money Counts The Money Counts Level 1 awareness raising sessions continue to be delivered remotely. These sessions help to highlight and promote the Argyll & Bute Worrying about Money leaflet produced by the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN). As well as being available in English, the Worrying about Money leaflet is also available in Arabic, Gaelic, Polish and Ukrainian, and, following a suggestion from a participant, it is now available in an Easy Read version. To access these leaflets, follow the link below then go to the Argyll & Bute section of the website. Some paper copies are also available. Please contact nhsh.abhealthimprovement@nhs.scot if you would like any paper copies for your organisation. Cash First Leaflets | IFAN (foodaidnetwork.org.uk) Living Well Networks In April 2023, a new model of delivery was implemented, there is now a lead Living Well Network (LWN) Coordinator for each Locality, with a two-year Service Level Agreement in place. Although there has been a reduction in the number of LWN Coordinators, quarterly LWN meetings are still currently being held in each. Page 31 Agenda Item 8c
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2 The LWNs provide an opportunity for people to come together to find out what issues matter to local communities; to plan activities and events together; and to network with individuals, services and organisations. The LWNs will now work in partnership with Locality Planning Groups, by supporting engagement work within communities, sharing any identified local needs, raising issues and providing feedback to/from communities. The vacant LWN Coordinator post in Helensburgh and Lomond has now been recruited to with a new LWN Coordinator starting on 15th August. Further information on the LWNs and contact details for your area can be found here: https://www.ablivingwell.org/living-well-networks Living Well Strategy and Prevention Board In June of 2023, the Living Well Steering Group and the Prevention Board agreed to a merger with an aspiration of embodying a philosophy of prevention, by focussing on wellness, not illness, empowering those within Argyll and Bute to live well. The five-year Argyll and Bute Living Well Strategy and Living Well branding will be retained and utilised to achieve the aspiration outlined above. A copy of the strategy is available at www.ablivingwell.org/living-well-strategy. The Living Well Steering Group and the Prevention Board will be replaced by the ‘Living Well’ Board. The Living Well board will provide strategic direction to the Living Well and Prevention agenda, with the aim of creating supports and services which take a preventative approach to improving the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of people across Argyll and Bute, enabling them to live well. The Living Well board will ensure that all a multi-agency approach is taken, with all partners working together with a shared vision and responsibility to provide cohesion and clarity around wellbeing services. This will include ensuring funding is allocated wisely, aligned with the shared vision of all partners, avoiding duplication across partners. The Living Well board will coordinate the efforts of all associated subgroups, providing strategic direction, authorisation, accountability and support to their respective aims. They will monitor the progress, and resolve any issues arising, reviewing and make recommendations on any business cases or proposals arising from the subgroups. Subgroups include frailty, wellbeing project and community assets/coproduction. The 2019-2024 Living Well Strategy was developed following extensive engagement and consultation with our communities, our staff and our third sector partners, reflecting what people told us was needed to improve self-management across Argyll and Bute. The outcomes of this engagement resulted in four themes: Page 32
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3 People – People living in Argyll and Bute have the tools and support they need to support them to Live Well Community – There are a wide range of local services to support people to Live Well Workforce - Staff are able and motivated to support the people they see to Live Well Leadership – Effective Leadership is in place to support the delivery of the Living Well strategy Following further engagement through the Prevention Board, both the Living Well Steering group and Prevention Programme board agreed to merge Living Well and the Health and Wellbeing Programme. The above themes and corresponding action plans have therefore been incorporated into the programme structure and action planning. REPORT AUTHOR AND CONTACT Author Names: Sam Campbell (Health Improvement Principal); Rory Munro (interim Health Improvement Lead); Angela Coll (Health Improvement Senior); Heather McAdam (Health Improvement Senior); Saskia Schmitz (Health Intelligence Specialist). Email: nhsh.abhealthimprovement@nhs.scot Page 33
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Community Learning Services LiveArgyll Update Youth Work Cowal GIVE – summer programme provided 9 opportunities for young people to participate in. This included some awareness sessions, community projects and reward trips. Attendees were mainly new engagers and ranging in age from 11 to 15. The group took part in a water safety session delivered by Dunoon Coastguard, completed community projects with Inspiring Innellan and Bullwood Nature Trail in return for trips to Dunoon Cinema, Castle Semple Lochwinnoch for kayaking and Canoeing and Go-karting and Lazerquest at Scotkart Clydebank. The latter 2 trips saw the Dunoon group link up with young people from Helensburgh and Lomond. The group received a lot of positive comments from the community in Innellan with members of the public taking time to praise their work ethic and thank them for their efforts weeding and tidying the area around Cluniter. Friday Night Football is being delivered once a month for the next few months in partnership with Police Scotland at the Black Park cages. Numbers so far haven’t been as high as the previous programme but this may be due to the school holidays and many being out of the area on holiday. Dates for the next two sessions are Friday 18 August and Friday 15 September. The programme will be reviewed after the September session to determine whether there is still a need to continue. Police Scotland Young Volunteers (PSYV) – LiveArgyll Youth Worker Ann Kennovin has been supporting PC Quinn with the PSYV group who have been helping with community events in Cowal and beyond. So far the group has helped at the following events Sandbank Gala, Dunoon Rally, Inveraray Highland Games as well as the Kings Dedication service in Edinburgh. Discussions are ongoing regarding the delivery of wider achievement options for the group – Dynamic Youth Award, Youth Achievement Awards, Volunteering Awards. School work – Currently working with DYW (Developing Young Work Force) Lead at Dunoon Grammar on the delivery of SQA Employability Award as part of the EXiTE programme which is targeted at those young people leaving school after 4th year. The pupils will also undertake a work placement in their chosen industry one day per week for the full academic year to gain experience and increase their employability skills. Youth Work Bute Summer Exchange Programme - This is a chance for the Youth Action Groups across Argyll and Bute to come together, get to know each other, see other parts of Argyll and Bute, do some work with another Action Group to enhance the youth voice network, make friends, and take part in some fun activities. The hope is this could become an annual programme to different areas of Argyll and Bute to give them a chance to work with different groups across the local authority. Bute Youth Action Group were first to do so and hosted the Kintyre Youth Action Group in July. There was an overnight stay in Rothesay with 16 children ages of 13 – 17. They participated in various activities throughout the day around the Island including a beach clean/litter pick and BBQ. Page 35 Agenda Item 8d
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Team building activities, games and a silent disco. Bute Youth Action Group will be taking their Exchange Trip to Kintyre on Tuesday the 8th and Wednesday the 9th of August where it will be Kintyre Youth Action group’s turn to host. Adult Learning Cowal and Bute Adult learning in both areas have a Community Learning Worker who work as an Adult Learning Lead in a Part time capacity Shona is responsible for Rothesay/Bute and Angela for Dunoon/Cowal. They are currently looking at Adult Learning opportunities and engaging /working with Partners to identify some of the current needs/provision required. For further information and to find out what is happening in the different areas contact details are as follows: Bute: Shona Edwards is now in Post for Community Based Adult Learning on Bute. Shona will also continue in her role as Youth Worker and she can be contacted on the same contact details for both. Her contact details are telephone 01700 501335. Email: Shona.Edwards@liveargyll.co.uk Dunoon/Cowal: Angela Gallacher is in Post for Community Based Adult Learning on Bute. Angela can be contacted e telephone 01369800384 Email: Angela.Gallacher@liveargyll.co.uk Page 36
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Principal and Chief Executive: Martin Jones www.argyll.uhi.ac.uk UHI Argyll is a trading name of Argyll College Ltd a charity registered in Scotland No SC026685 Registered address: West Bay, Dunoon, PA23 7HP UHI Argyll – Rothesay and Dunoon: Update for Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 02/08/2023 Since the last meeting in May, staff and students at UHI Argyll were mostly busy with the final stages of the academic year. Teaching staff are currently on annual leave and will return to work on 15th August. Many support staff also take annual leave during the summer months when centres are quieter. All UHI Argyll centres held a further open day on 14th June. There was less of a focus on taster events and instead people were encouraged to drop into their local centres to enquire about our courses and find out about options and funding, etc. We have introduced some new courses at NQ, NC, and Access levels, some of which are short-full-time (i.e., taking only one semester): NQ Health and Social Care: full time, duration: 1 academic year NQ Business, Marketing and Enterprise: Level 5, full time or part time, duration: 1 academic year NQ Business, Marketing and Tourism: Level 6, full time or part time, duration: 1 academic year NC Computing with Digital Media: Level 6, full time, part time or day release, duration: 1 academic year Access to Care: Level 5, 2.5 days a week, Duration: 18 weeks, start Jan 2024 Access to Social Sciences: Level 4, full time, duration: semester 1 (August 23-Jan 24) NPA Gardening & Horticulture (Helensburgh and Rothesay only): Part time (1 day/week), duration: 17 weeks (from August 23) NC Horticulture (Helensburgh and Rothesay only): Level 5, full time or part time, duration: 1 semester full time or part time 2 semesters: Jan-June 2024 and Jan-Jun 2025. Option to study as part-time infill – 1x half day in centre, 1x half day practical We are also hoping to run the following commercial courses in Dunoon early in semester 1: first aid, food hygiene, personal licence. UHI Argyll staff have been (and will be) attending some local events during summer months – we will have a stall at Cowal Highland Gathering. We are currently preparing for the new academic year and the intake of new students. Sheena Finlay Assistant Centre Manager (Rothesay) sheena.finlay@uhi.ac.uk Rhona Altin Assistant Centre Manager (Dunoon) rhona.altin@uhi.ac.uk Page 37 Agenda Item 8e
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Skills Development Scotland Bute & Cowal Update 15th August 2023 Page 39 Agenda Item 8f
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Service Delivery in Bute & Cowal School Service Offer Dunoon Grammar School & Rothesay Joint Campus Our careers advisers work delivering career guidance to enable young people from S1-S6 to develop their Career Management Skills via a range of group work and 1-1 coaching conversations. We work closely with our partners within the school to identify young people who are considered most at risk of not making a positive progression from school. Helping those young people to develop their career management skills and move onto education, employment, or training when they leave school. For more information click this link What We Do - Scotland’s Career Service Update School Leaver Destinations Follow Up Over the school holidays we are currently contacting all school leavers from Dunoon Grammar and Rothesay Joint Campus (approx.170 pupils) to ensure that they have secured a positive destination post leaving school and offer support to any that haven’t. These results will be published by the Scottish Government sometime in the new year. Please click here to see last year’s results.Scottish Government School Leaver Destinations. Exam Results Helpline Almost 145,000 learners across Scotland will receive their SQA results on Tuesday 8 August 2023 Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) Results Helpline will be there to offer information, advice and guidance to Scotland’s young people and their parents and carers. The SDS Results Helpline number is 0808 100 8000 – this goes live on results day and SDS’s expert advisers will have access to information on course vacancies at UK colleges and universities, Confirmation and Clearing, advice about Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships and jobs, volunteering, training, or staying on at school. The 2023 Results Helpline opening hours are: Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 August - 8am to 8pm Thursday 10 and Friday 11 August – 9am to 5pm Post School Service Offer Our Next Steps service supports young people aged 16 – 18 (extended to 26 for care experienced young people) who are unemployed, helping them to build up their career management skills and move on to and sustain a range of options as appropriate. We also offer a service to any adult who wishes to develop their career management and employability skills and move into employment or support a career change. Individuals can access help at our local centres at the following locations. Dunoon – Queens Hall, 9 Argyll Street, Dunoon PA23 7HH, 01369 566 990 Update Relocation Rothesay – We have recently collocated with our DWP partners in Rothesay. Appointments are available on a Tuesday. Please call 01700 503600 to arrange. Page 40
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PACE: Partnership Action for Continuing Employment (PACE) PACE is the Scottish Government’s initiative dedicated to responding to redundancy situations. Through providing skills development and employability support, PACE aims to minimise the time individuals affected by redundancy are out of work. PACE brings together 24 organisations, together with the Scottish Government to provide free and impartial advice, guidance and support for individuals affected by redundancy. Our PACE activity is co-ordinated by our Chair Pamela Little. Update In the current quarter of the financial year, we have had limited PACE activity. Please contact pacenationalteam@sds.co.uk for any further information Annual Participation Measure The Annual Participation Measure (APM) reports on the education and employment activity of 16 to 19 year olds in Scotland. It is the source of the Scottish government's national performance indicator “Percentage of young adults 16 to 19 year olds participating in education, training or employment”. The APM method takes account of all status of 16- to 19-year-olds in Scotland over one calendar year from the 1st of April to the 31st of March. We report on if they are participating, not participating and unconfirmed is based on which status an individual spent to the greatest numbers of days within the year. See below the Annual Participation Measure from 2022 Update The 2023 Annual Participation Measure if due to be published on 31st August. This link will take you to the where the information will be published Link to Annual Participation Measure Page 41
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Local Partnership Support SDS local teams are involved in supporting the following partnerships. DYW – supporting our DYW colleagues with employer events in schools. Local Employability Partnership - member of the LEP Corporate Parent responsibilities – supporting Corporate Parent Board and working closely with the Through Care Forums CLD – supporting CLD Partnership Board Community Justice – member of Community Justice Board Skills Development Scotland - General Update Review of Skills Landscape Published Scottish Government has published the report and recommendations from the Independent Review of the Skills Delivery Landscape. It was led by James Withers, formerly Chief Executive of Scotland Food & Drink. This report follows consultation, a call for evidence and submissions from a range of stakeholders. The full report and recommendations are available here Fit for Future: developing a post school learning system to fuel economic transformation Employer Support Skills Development Scotland works directly with employers across Scotland, providing trusted advice that helps employers invest in existing skills, develop new talent using equal and inclusive recruitment, and get the right products to grow their business. Update Find out more at our new employer hub SDS Employer Hub or contacting us on 0800 783 6000 Local contact Susan MacRae Area Manager Argyll & Bute and Eilean Siar susan.macrae@sds.co.uk Further information skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk - Corporate Website myworldofwork.co.uk - for all your work, skills and learning needs apprenticeships.scot - for all the latest on apprenticeships Page 42
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Shaping Place for Wellbeing Programme: Dunoon update The update below summarises some of the recent work of the Shaping Places for Wellbeing programme in Dunoon and some guides we have published to our work. We would like to highlight a couple of areas where we are keen to seek input from people and organisations based in and around Dunoon. How can Shaping Places for Wellbeing support your work? Trying out your own Place and Wellbeing Assessment: Are you creating or updating a plan, policy or strategy for your organisation? Are you interested in exploring how it will affect a place and its impact on the wellbeing of people and planet? If so, the Dunoon team can support organisations to try out this process. Active travel: Over the coming months, the Shaping Places for Wellbeing team will be working with local partners to explore how active travel plans for Dunoon can work together. If your organisation has an interest in this topic and would like to discuss how to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact Becky.Hothersall@improvementservice.org.uk if you are interested in finding out more about either of these opportunities. Place and Wellbeing Assessments Complete Potential future assessments Waterfront regeneration proposal (Levelling Up Bid) Argyll and Bute Council Economic strategy Dunoon Active Travel Hub Local Place Plan for Dunoon HSCP Joint strategic plan and joint commissioning strategy Dunoon Community STEM Hub Argyll and Bute Local Policing Plan 2023-26 Argyll and Bute Local Outcomes Improvement Plan Since the last Area Community Planning Group the Shaping Places for Wellbeing team has co-ordinated Place and Wellbeing assessments of the Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP)’s Joint strategic plan and joint commissioning strategy, and the Argyll and Bute Local Policing Plan 2023-26. Two broad emerging themes from the HSCP assessment were: Page 43 Agenda Item 9
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The role of the HSCP (its core functions, how it works in partnership and in where its role is to influence and share knowledge). Discussions focussed on Public Transport, Housing & Community and Natural Space Outcomes as three key areas which present significant opportunities for improving health by reducing the need for healthcare services. Collaboration with the third sector and how ambitions for co-production of services can be achieved. The Local Policing Plan assessment report is currently being written but broad themes include: partnership working; supporting mental health; young people; building on successes around dementia awareness and support; and specific considerations relating to remote, rural and island policing. Links to the reports will be available in due course but if you’d like to know more please get in touch. The team continues to support the implementation of recommendations from earlier Place and Wellbeing Assessments, with Dunoon Development Community Development Trust and the Council including teams in Economic Growth, Active Travel, Rural Growth Deal. This includes: Alignment of active travel initiatives Targeted engagement on infrastructure projects A guide to Place and Wellbeing Assessments has been produced that anyone can use to do their own assessments on plans, strategies, proposals and other decision-making processes. Our new guide, A Data-Informed Approach: A How-To Guide to Capturing Local Quantitative Data, shares our experience on capturing local quantitative data. We also share our learning through our blogs series and keeping you up to date on programme progress through our regularly updated Programme Summary document. Coming soon – visual summary of local insight into inequalities in Dunoon The team continues to explore data and insights from local stakeholders to better understand the key inequalities and people most impacted by them within Dunoon, as well as the changes people need from their place in order to thrive. We will shortly be publishing a visual summary of the key issues identified by our engagement process. We are also working on a longer report summarising the sources we have consulted, recurring themes and next steps. These findings are already being fed into Place and Wellbeing Assessments and our programme’s support for assessment recommendations. This includes, for example, facilitating discussions around targeted engagement of inequality groups and potential for multiple teams to co-ordinate engagement processes. Page 44
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This implementation diagram has been produced to show the intended short and long term outcomes of the programme. Further contact and information Programme website https://www.improvementservice.org.uk/products-and-services/consultancy-and- support/shaping-places-for-wellbeing-programme Keep in touch via our twitter account https://twitter.com/place4wellbeing/status/1478748497566445570 If you want to share your own projects, approaches and learning relevant to Shaping Places for Wellbeing join our Knowledge Hub https://khub.net/web/shaping-places-for-wellbeing- programme Page 45
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Sandbank Community Development Trust Community Action Plan and Activities Update August 2023 Page 47 Agenda Item 11a
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Sandbank Community Development Trust An update • Established in 2002 to provide • social and community facilities • environmental improvements • preservation of local heritage • support for local businesses • Reinvigorated after COVID • 10 directors active in a range of projects • Healthy reserves and new energy for projects and activities Page 48
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Sandbank Community Development Trust An update • Projects include: • Ardnadam Community Park • Lazaretto War Memorial • Holy Loch Nature Reserve • Renewable energy and car charging points • Benches for Ardnadam • Play equipment • Coronation Tree • Signs in the village • Community Action Plan update in 2022 Page 49
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Community Action Plan • Survey • What do you like? • What don’t you like? • What would you improve? • One small and one big improvement • Sustainability • Over 100 responses • Some interesting and positive findings • Next steps = to analyse findings and publish results • One aspect worth highlighting – the need for an effective Community Council Page 50
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Climate Change Working Group Date: 2 August 2023 Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report Argyll and Bute Climate Action 1.0 Executive Summary This CPP sub-group, known as the Climate Change Working Group are planning the production of a Climate Change Action Plan for Argyll and Bute. The Action Plan is proposed to be produced by employing a Climate Change Project Manager to lead the process. The Climate Change Working Group recently agreed to start the project by recruiting a Project Manager this financial year. The project has been delayed due to underestimating the time taken to conclude a Memorandum of Agreement. 2.0 Highlight Report 2.1 Action Plan background The purpose of the Action Plan is to establish a region-wide climate risk assessment and to develop an integrated set of adaptation, mitigation and engagement actions. The proposed post of Climate Change Project Manager will bring organisations, businesses and communities together to develop a shared vision and understanding of climate change risks and opportunities across the Argyll and Bute region. It will identify priorities for communities, areas and sectors that will establish where (both spatially and thematically) and how the region can increase resilience and adapt, mitigate and engage on climate change issues. It will identify, but not reproduce, climate change work either already happening or part of an organisation or business’s own responsibilities. 2.2 Funding The Climate Change Working Group are currently pulling together a funding package to support the post of the Climate Change Project Manager. Page 51 Agenda Item 12a
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The cost of a Project Manager post is estimated to be in the region of £120,000 over two years, which would include the salary of an appropriately qualified climate leader, associated employer costs, T&S costs, etc. Subsequent to previous calls for funding contributions, we had two firm contributions from partners: £20,000 NHS Highland - Argyll & Bute Health and Social Care Partnership £50,000 Argyll and Bute Council We have also the following bids in with the following organisations and are awaiting news on the success or otherwise of these bids: £15,000 NatureScot Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI) are also supportive of the proposal in principle and are exploring funding opportunities. 2.3 Progress The Climate Change working Group decided to start the project with the budget we currently have. The finalisation of the Memorandum of Agreement between the CPP and the hosting body (Argyll Countryside Trust) is now complete, which was required to establish the governance arrangements. The Project Manager post is now advertised and can be viewed here: https://www.act-now.org.uk/news/new-climate-change-action-project-manager-vacancy We’d appreciate it if this opportunity was circulated widely amongst your contacts. 3.0 Summary 1. We propose producing a strategic Action Plan process as the best, and most thorough, way to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute. 2. We have an approved governance arrangement for the Climate Change Project Manager post. 3. We are actively pursuing the recruitment of a Project Manager to start this Action Plan work and hope to have someone in post shortly, once we have completed the recruitment processes. Stan Phillips, Chair, CPP Climate Change Working Group Page 52
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For more information, please contact: Stan Phillips, Operations Manager, NatureScot stan.phillips@nature.scot Page 53
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