Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 5 November 2025
Back to Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group — 5 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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Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 29 October 2025 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP will be held ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE DAVAAR SUITE, KINTYRE COMMUNITY CENTRE, CAMPBELTOWN AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on WEDNESDAY, 5 NOVEMBER 2025 at 10:30 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTE OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP HELD ON WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST 2025 (Pages 5 - 14) 4. APPOINTMENT OF VICE CHAIR OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP (Pages 15 - 16) Report by Committee and Democratic Services Officer, Argyll and Bute Council 5. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Youth Action Council Youth Voice Model (Pages 17 - 30) Presentation from Community Learning Worker, Live Argyll 6. PREVENTATIVE POLICING (Pages 31 - 38) Presentation from Superintendent Patricia Robertson, Police Scotland Public Document Pack
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7. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Argyll and Bute Climate Action: a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan for Argyll and Bute (Pages 39 - 48) Presentation from Climate Change Project Manager, Argyll & the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust (b) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives 8. TELECARE AND DIGITAL RESILIENCE (Pages 49 - 52) Report by Technology Enabled Care (TEC) Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership 9. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING HIGHLIGHTS (Pages 53 - 56) Report by Partnerships Lead, Argyll and Bute Council 10. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP PRIORITIES (a) Transport and Housing Update Update from Community Planning Team, Argyll and Bute Council (b) Community Wellbeing Presentation from Community Planning Team, Argyll and Bute Council 11. ARGYLL AND BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP PUBLIC HEALTH TEAM (a) Partner Update - Public Health (Pages 57 - 62) Report by Health Improvement Senior, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (b) Working with Communities Presentation from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Public Health Team Please find here the link to the video component of the presentation to be delivered by the Public Health team. 12. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Police Scotland Update - TO FOLLOW (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update (Pages 63 - 70) (c) Live Argyll Community Learning Services - Youth Learning Update (Pages 71 - 74)
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(d) Live Argyll Community Learning Services - Adult Learning Update (Pages 75 - 78) (e) Shopper-Aide (Pages 79 - 80) (f) Tarbert & Skipness Community Trust (Pages 81 - 82) (g) Transport Scotland Update (Pages 83 - 86) (h) Forestry and Land Scotland Update November 2025 (Pages 87 - 88) (i) Opportunity for Verbal Updates 13. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will take place on Wednesday 4 February 2026 Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group Councillor Anne Horn (Chair) Contact: Julieann Small, Democratic Services Assistant - 01546 604043
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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP HELD ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, KILMORY, LOCHGILPHEAD AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS ON WEDNESDAY, 27 AUGUST 2025 Present: Councillor Anne Horn (Chair) Lynsey Innis, Committee and Democratic Services Officer, Argyll and Bute Council John McLuckie, Partnerships Lead - Community Planning, Argyll and Bute Council Antonia Baird, Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Caitlin Marini, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Caitlin McNeill, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI) Darren Gibb, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Dawn Park, Community Learning Services, Live Argyll Jamie Titterton, Community Learning Services, Live Argyll Councillor Garret Corner Councillor John Armour Ian Woodcock, Transport Scotland Jeni West, Forestry and Land Scotland Moira MacLaren, UHI Argyll Terry Williams, CalMac Inspector Matthew Shaw, Police Scotland Angela Coll, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Andy Macpherson, Argyll & the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust (ACT) Valerie Nimmo, Campbeltown Community Council Ian Brodie, East Kintyre Community Council Chris Abell, Islay Community Council Sandy Taylor, Islay Community Council Katie Anderson, ACHA Stephen Wood, Calmac Susan Paterson, Shopper-Aide Attending: Councillor Jan Brown Douglas Whyte, Housing Strategy Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Stuart Green, Corporate Support Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Karen McCurry, Mid Argyll MS Centre (Snowdrop Argyll) Danny Renton, Seawilding – Craignish Andrew Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter, Argyll and Bute 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and general introductions were made. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of: Iona MacPhail, Fyne Homes; Page 5 Agenda Item 3
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Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth, Argyll and Bute Council; Malcolm Sinclair, Lochgilphead Community Council; Becky Hothersall, The Poverty Alliance; Muriel MacKaveney, Culture Heritage & Arts Assembly (CHARTS), Argyll & Isles; and Jane Cowen, Tarbert & Skipness Community Trust. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTE OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP HELD ON WEDNESDAY 7 MAY 2025 The Minute of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group meeting held on Wednesday 7 May 2025 was approved as a correct record. 4. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Mid Argyll MS Centre (Snowdrop Argyll) Consideration was given to a presentation from Karen McCurry, Manager of the Mid Argyll MS Centre which outlined the work of the Centre in delivering support in local communities. The presentation included information on the delivery of their two main projects, Snowdrop Argyll and the Long Term Conditions Outreach Project across the MAKI area. The presentation also provided a brief history of the centre and the challenges faced in accessing support in the community. The Group commended Karen for the work undertaken by herself and all of the staff who work at the Mid Argyll MS Centre. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation from Manager, Mid Argyll MS Centre (Snowdrop Argyll)) 5. ASPIRING PLACES; COMMUNITY PROJECTS IN ARGYLL AND BUTE The Group gave consideration to a presentation by the Project Manager from Argyll and Bute Council, in relation to the Council’s Aspiring Places; Community Project in Argyll and Bute. The presentation provided background information in relation to the previous project approach; the launch of the Argyll and Bute Voices and Aspiring Places Platform; the Funding Connections Roadshow that was delivered at various locations throughout April and May 2025; the available funding streams; the number of project submissions and expressions of interest and next steps. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. Page 6
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(Reference: Presentation from Corporate Support Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted) 6. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING HIGHLIGHTS The Group gave consideration to a report which outlined matters discussed during the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee meeting held on 6 June 2025. The report provided information on the CPP Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan; the Community Wealth Building (CWB) Charter; the Transport Infrastructure Priority Outcome and the Introduction to Housing Priority Outcome. The report also highlighted the Service Delivery Review currently being carried out by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Partnerships Lead, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 27 August 2025, submitted) 7. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP PRIORITIES (a) Transport Update The Group gave consideration to a presentation which was delivered by the Partnerships Lead of the Community Planning Team. The presentation highlighted information on how the Community Planning Partnership would seek to improve transport infrastructure taking into consideration the agreed objectives of the 2024- 2034 Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan (ABOIP). The presentation also included information on the work by the CPP Management Committee and the actions of the Transport Integration Working Group and Community Active Travel Network. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation from Partnerships Lead - Community Planning, Argyll and Bute Council) (b) Introduction into Housing Consideration was given to a presentation which was delivered by the Partnerships Lead of the Community Planning Team. The presentation outlined how the Community Planning Partnership would seek to improve housing taking into consideration the agreed objectives of the 2024-2034 ABOIP. The presentation also provided information on the agreed actions to be developed; the agreed actions which were progressing and the online survey which was developed to help understand the area’s housing needs and neighbourhoods. Page 7
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John outlined a series of questions which would be circulated to Partners by email following the meeting. He advised that as part of the ongoing conversation, the Community Planning Team would welcome any additional comments in response to the questions by Wednesday, 3 September 2025. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the presentation. (Reference: Presentation from Community Planning Partnerships Lead, Argyll and Bute Council) (c) Housing Emergency Update Having noted that the Council declared a Housing Emergency in June 2023, the Group gave consideration to a report which provided a snapshot of the wide- ranging activity that has taken place in the housing system over the last six months. Activity included engaging directly with the Scottish Government; developing Strategic Development Frameworks to facilitate long-term delivery, securing national funding investment into housing projects in the area; engaging with infrastructure providers to provide worker housing and partnering with Registered Social Landlords (RSL’s) and community housing groups to facilitate housing developments. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the content of the report. (Reference: Report by Report by Housing Strategy Team Lead, Argyll and Bute Council, dated July 2025, submitted) 8. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Police Scotland Update Consideration was given to an update which provided information on the ongoing work of the Service and information on serious and organised crime; acquisitive crime; road safety and road crime; violent crime; public protection and agricultural crime. The update also provided information on feedback on investigating complaints and user/customer satisfaction; the Inveraray Road Safety Day which was on 18th May; drug education in schools and police presence at recent events. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. Page 8
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(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) FQ1 review of local performance across Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands for the period 2025-26. The report gave a breakdown of 90 fires and special services incidents which occurred in the MAKI Area within that period. A presentation in respect of the Service Delivery Review was also considered. The presentation highlighted that the Service Delivery Review is looking at all aspects of the operational models of SFRS to meet Scotland’s changing risks and demands, including where stations are based and how appliances are staffed and advised that they need to match their operational resources to risk and demand. It was highlighted that the public consultation runs until September and following the closure of the consultation, the responses would be reviewed and a decision would be made at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Board meeting in December. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted) (c) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Public Health Update Consideration was given to a public health update from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership’s Public Health Team on the ongoing wellbeing and prevention activities overseen and delivered by them in Argyll and Bute. The update provided information on the support provided by Community Link Workers and where they are located; Community Link Working – remote and island evaluation; Suicide Prevention Training available to those in Argyll and Bute; the Argyll and Bute Living Well Programme Board and their focussed areas of work; the Art of hosting at The Living Well Programme; the launch of the Population Health Framework and the Working Well with Communities update Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, dated August 2025, submitted) (d) Live Argyll Community Learning Services - Youth Learning Update Consideration was given to a report from the Live Argyll Community Learning Service, which provided an update on Youth Work in Kintyre. The report provided information on the work of the Kintyre Youth Action Group and Kintyre Youth Action Council; the Ben Nevis Expedition which young people across Argyll and Bute took Page 9
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part in; the Isle of Bute Camping Trip which young people from Kintyre Youth Active Group attended; the continued support provided to young people in Campbeltown, Tarbert and Islay secondary schools to access and achieve Wider Achievement Awards; support from Alasdair Paisley MSYP who is leaving his role as a Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament for Argyll and Bute and regular ongoing projects. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Live Argyll Community Learning Services, submitted) (e) Live Argyll Community Learning Services - Adult Learning Update Consideration was given to a report from the Live Argyll Community Learning Service, which provided an update on Adult Learning in Mid Argyll and Kintyre. The report provided information on the Mid Argyll Community Learning and Employability Hub; Mid Argyll Digital Skills for Life sessions; Mid Argyll Let’s Grow Group; Mid Argyll Women Coming Together; Kintyre Workshop/Hub; SQA awards group; Digital Skills course and Crafty Tuesdays Alzheimer’s Group. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Live Argyll Community Learning Services, submitted) (f) Transport Scotland Update Consideration was given to an update from Transport Scotland which highlighted a variety of different works being undertaken including drainage and resurfacing works at different locations along the A83 and the ongoing work on the A83 Rest and Be Thankful. It was highlighted that implementation of the 20mph zones within a number of towns within the Kintyre peninsula is being progressed and all locations should be fully installed throughout Argyll and Bute by the end of 2025. Ian further advised that BEAR are currently developing a scheme to cut back the vegetation on the A83 and would be implemented during the autumn/winter months this year. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Area Manager, Transport Scotland, submitted) (g) Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI) Update The Group gave consideration to an update from Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI). The update provided information on TSI Scotland work; the Public Page 10
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Service Reform and Population Health; the Scotland demands better campaign; the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund year 5 and 6; the ABTSI Strategy review 2026-2031; the Community Directory and Funding Platform refresh and the work of the Wellbeing Development Manager. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface, submitted) (h) Forestry and Land Scotland Update The Group gave consideration to a report which highlighted the ongoing workstreams of Forestry and Land Scotland within the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands area. Information was provided in relation to local Land Management Plans; work to combat phytophthora ramorum disease in larch trees; progress with peatland restoration; and details of upcoming operations. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Forestry and Land Scotland, dated August 2025, submitted) (i) Opportunity for Verbal Updates Community Development Team, Argyll and Bute Council Antonia Baird, Community Development Officer highlighted that arising from SSEN’s infrastructural work in the area, there is to be a new Community Benefit Fund for the MAKI area, comprising of £3.2m, to be called the Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Local Fund. Antonia advised that the delivery of the fund was currently being designed, and if members of the Group wanted to have a say on the priorities, the level of disbursement and the area of benefit for the fund, there were some community engagement events happening between the 8th and 10th September at Dalmally, Lochgilphead, Tarbert, Carradale and Inveraray, as well as 2 online events the following week. Further information can be found here: Argyll and Kintyre 275kV - SSEN Transmission Antonia highlighted that in partnership with the TSI, the Community Development Officer and the Third Sector Support Officer are hosting a third sector networking event on the 2nd October in Tarbert Arts and Leisure Centre, Tarbert, between 10:30am and 1pm, exploring whether a new regular network would be of benefit to the sector and if so what it should deliver for the sector. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Caitlin Marini referred to the update provided by Antonia Baird in relation to the launch of the new Community Benefit Fund. Caitlin highlighted the in-person and Page 11
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virtual events being held throughout Argyll. Discussion was had around areas not included within the fund, with it being noted that it was only available in areas with live projects. Chris Abell, Islay Community Council Chris Abell advised that he found the Partner Updates section of meeting very informative, however he voiced his disappointment that the Scottish Ambulance Service did not attend the meetings or provide updates. The Committee and Democratic Services Officer advised that, although the Scottish Ambulance Service was not a formal Partner of the MAKI Area CPG, they had previously indicated their willingness to attend meetings and provide updates, which they had done on prior occasions. In light of the expressed interest from the Chair and Partners present, Lynsey undertook to extend an invitation to attend a future meeting of the Group. Shopper-Aide In the absence of Susan Paterson, Shopper-Aide, The Committee and Democratic Services Officer read out the following update submitted before the meeting: “Following on from our survey report Antonia Baird (ABC) has been working with us to set up a Focus Group Listening Café which will take place on 1st September in Campbeltown. We are looking at three main points – 1.What does independence mean for an older person 2.What does Shopper-Aide do well and what more could they do, 3. What more can be done for older people in Kintyre. Over the summer we have been very busy with some challenging times as staff have taken holidays, a break down with one of the washing machines in the laundry and problems with our aging vehicles. Storm Floris meant we had to cancel Elderberries but the staff went out to visit the members to ensure they were ok. We have received funding from the National Lottery £135k over three years – not as much as we would have liked and some donations from local people for our Elderberries group and the new Pharmacy in Campbeltown ran a raffle and also doubled the amount. £500+. We are in a better position than last year but like all charities still need support from funders and communities due to higher costs, juggling with older vehicles, lack of volunteers and the need for more staff to enable us to do more as the population in the older age groups expands.” Members of the Group highlighted the great work undertaken by Antonia Baird, Community Development Officer and Inspiralba in assisting Shopper-Aide overcome some of their many challenges. Page 12
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9. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Seawilding - Craignish Consideration was given to a presentation from Danny Renton, CEO, Seawilding, Craignish. The presentation highlighted that Seawilding is a Community-led Marine Habitat Restoration and that their native oyster and seagrass projects deliver Climate Change; Community Wealth Building and future-proofing of the marine ecosystems. Danny advised that approximately 514 people have visited or been involved in the projects in Loch Craignish and Loch Broom since January 2025. The economic impact for Loch Craignish was highlighted and it was noted that the project had created many green jobs including 6 full time employees; 18 paid seasonal/part time jobs; 3 community members trained in green skills and Workshop Leaders. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation from CEO, Seawilding - Craignish) (b) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives Argyll and Bute Climate Action Andy Macpherson, ACT Climate Project Manager provided a short presentation outlining the progress of Climate action to date. Andy advised that his post (ACT Climate Project Manager) had been extended until July 2026 and that he would be supporting communities with resilience planning and would be exploring options to establish pilot groups within each of the administrative areas. 10. APPOINTMENT OF VICE CHAIR OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP The Group gave consideration to a report providing information relating to the appointment of a Vice-Chair for the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group. The report also outlined the expected time commitment and information on the role. The Chair took the opportunity to record her thanks to Ian Brodie for his commitment and support as Vice Chair and for his hard work and dedication as previous Chair of the Group. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group agreed to continue consideration of the appointment of a Vice-Chair to the next meeting of the Group (Reference: Report by Committee and Democratic Service Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 27 August 2025, submitted) Page 13
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11. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Group noted that the next meeting of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group would take place at 10.30am on Wednesday 5 November on a hybrid basis in the Kintyre Community Centre, Campbeltown and by Microsoft Teams. Page 14
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area Community Planning Group 5 November 2025 Appointment of Vice-Chair of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area Community Planning Group Summary The following report provides information relating to the appointment of a Vice-Chair for the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group. It outlines the expected time commitment and also gives information on the role. The Area Community Planning Group is asked to consider making an appointment to this position. 1. Purpose 1.1 This report asks the Area Community Planning Group to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair. 2. Recommendations 2.1 The Area Community Planning Group is asked to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair. 3. Background 3.1 At the previous meeting of the MAKI Area Community Planning Group, held on 27 August 2025, the Group was unable to appoint a Vice-Chair. As a result, consideration of this appointment was deferred to the current meeting. 3.2 Ian Brodie, the previous Vice-Chair, has undertaken the responsibilities of both Chair and Vice-Chair since 2021. In line with the Group’s Terms of Reference, which stipulate that no individual may serve as a Chair or Vice-Chair for more than two consecutive two-year terms, the position of Vice-Chair is now vacant. Accordingly, the Group is required to nominate a member to assume the role of Vice-Chair. 4. Detail 4.1 In order to be considered as a candidate for the position of Vice-Chair the person must be a member of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area Community Planning Group. 4.2 Some further information on the commitment required:- Page 15 Agenda Item 4
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• Attend meetings of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area Community Planning Group; • Attend meetings of the Community Planning Partnership Management Committee/Full Partnership (4 meetings per annum); • Time commitment of at least 4 Area Community Planning Group meetings per year in February, May, August and November; 4 pre-agenda meetings per year in January, April, July/August and October; and 4 Chairs and Vice-Chairs meetings in advance of the pre-agenda meetings; • To participate in any Short-Term Working Groups as required; and • To engage with officers of the Council in terms of setting the Agenda for the CPG in consultation with the Chair. 5. Conclusions 5.1 The Area Community Planning Group is asked to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair. 6. LOIP Outcomes 6.1 This report does not link to any specific Outcome as it relates to administrative arrangements. For further information, please contact: Lynsey Innis, Committee and Democratic Services Officer, Argyll and Bute Council (01546) 604338 lynsey.innis@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 16
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Uncle BRADLEY Mother WILLIAM Me AILEEN KENNETH YOUTH ACTION GROUP, MSYP, AND OTHER YOUTH GROUP REPRESENTATIVES REPRESENTATIVES FORM A LOCAL YOUTH ACTION COUNCIL MSYP SYP NATIONAL CAMPAIGNS COUNCIL REPS MEET THREE TIMES A YEAR AT SITTINGS TO DISCUSS YOUTH ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS YOUTH COUNCIL HOST COUNCILLORS/DECISION MAKERS DURING THESE SITTINGS TO CONSULT ON LOCAL YOUTH ISSUES LOCAL CAMPAIGNS Youth Action Council Youth Voice Model Page 17 Agenda Item 5a
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What is the purpose? A model led by young people to support the effective implementation of article 12 of the UNCRC by ensuring young people have a say and influence over issues that affect them at a local level. Page 18
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What do young people think? Young people from the Kintyre and Bute Youth Action Group’s met in Rothesay where they explained why they feel they need a youth voice model that is led by them and meets their needs. Page 19
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They worked with Alasdair Paisley MSYP, met with local Councillor's, and a Youth Engagement Officer from Police Scotland and began developing their own youth voice model. Page 20
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They also visited and learned from the award winning Aberdeen Youth Movement over the Easter holidays to learn from their experiences and found new ways to develop their work. Page 21
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Kintyre Youth Action Council have held two sittings so far this year with the next one planned for the Autumn. The model is now being rolled out across different areas of Argyll and Bute. Page 22
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Model Principles ALL ELEMENTS (INC. STRUCTURE AND PRINCIPLES) ARE LED BY THE LOCAL YOUTH COUNCIL AND CAN BE REVIEWED AND AMENDED AT ANY TIME. YOUTH COUNCIL IDENTIFY THEMES/ISSUES TO DISCUSS AND CONSULT ON. FACILITATION AND SUPPORT PROVIDED BY LOCAL LIVEARGYLL CLD YOUTH WORKER. LEVEL OF SUPPORT TO BE IDENTIFIED BY LOCAL YOUTH COUNCIL AND CONSTANTLY REVIEWED. YOUTH COUNCIL TO HOST COUNCILLOR’S AND DECISION MAKERS ON THEIR TERMS - AT A VENUE AND TIME THEY ARE COMFORTABLE WITH, YOUTH COUNCIL SET AGENDA AND RULES FOR LOCAL MEETINGS TO MAKE IT YOUTH FRIENDLY. YOUNG PEOPLE TO RECORD THEIR MEETINGS USING A VARIETY OF MEDIUMS THAT SUIT THEM. Page 23
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How to Get Involved If you know any young people aged 11 - 18 who would like to get involved, or if your service/organisation would like to get involved in hearing and supporting the views of the Youth Action Council please contact jamie.titterton@liveargyll.co.uk Page 24
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Argyll and Bute UYO TAction CouncilH Page 25
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Article 12 of the UNCRC states that “young people have the right to be listened to and taken seriously” and that “when adults are making decisions that affect children they should ask them what they think and take account of children’s views when making the decision.” Why ‘Youth Voice’ Matters Young people having a voice on things that affect them has always been crucial to supporting young people to empower themselves and to become active citizens in democratic society. However, for services and decision makers it has never been more important than it is today. On the 16th of July 2024 the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) (Incorporation) (Scotland) Act 2024 came into force in Scotland. This means that children's rights, as set out in the UNCRC, are legally protected in Scotland. Page 1 As such, services and decision makers are required to take account of UNCRC articles when making decisions that could affect young people. Community Learning Youth Work (liveArgyll) are a rights based service who work alongside young people to support their rights and views. Page 26
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Officially launched in 2025, ABYAC stands for Argyll and Bute Youth Action Council. It is a collective of youth voice groups from across Argyll and Bute, currently located in Bute, Cowal, Helensburgh, Kintyre, and Oban. ABYAC was started by members of local Youth Action Group’s. In response to their previous experiences of sharing their views on adult/service led platforms and forums, they worked together to create their own youth voice model with a view to creating a model which properly supported young people to have their voices heard in youth friendly spaces, whilst sharing their views on local issues and what they would like to see change with local and area wide decision makers. In doing so, they were supported by and work in collaboration with Aberdeen Youth Movement. ABYAC members are aged 11 to 18 and represent youth views locally, as well as across the local authority, and nationally. Collectively, the groups provide an area wide platform for youth views and insights to be shared to help bring about the positive change that young people in Argyll and Bute want to see. Local groups regularly meet up to work together and just have fun. Adult and service led ‘youth consulting’ is often unintentionally tokenistic and can result in young people feeling disillusioned, disengaged, it can create a false sense of empowerment, can erode trust in adults, waste young people’s time, and undermine their sense of agency whilst leaving the balance of power firmly in the hands of adults and services. ABYAC was designed ‘by young people, for young people’ as a way of shifting the power and agency into the hands of those with the expert knowledge and understanding. What is ABYAC? Page 2 Page 27
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ABYAC Remit ABYAC group’s meet regularly to take part in youth voice meetings, consultations, plan and deliver local projects, and take part in health and wellbeing activities ABYAC group’s consult with local young people to find out what the local issues are Local ABYAC Council’s host three sittings per year where they discuss local issues and possible solutions, and then share these with local decision makers who need to report on how they have taken forward the group’s concerns or suggestions Page 3 ABYAC Remit Local meetings and sittings are led by the local young people, with support and facilitation provided by local liveArgyll Youth Workers who are CLD qualified and trained in facilitating community led processes which bring about community development and empowerment. Page 28
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Principles of ABYAC Sittings Local YAC’s hold three local Sittings per year Young people lead on all elements of development Young people set date, time, and location of Sittings ABYAC Sittings are chaired by local youth voice leaders/Ambassadors Young people decide what issues to discuss Young people set the rules for their Sittings and plan how they will be delivered Sittings are informal and youth friendly events with no adult or service interference YAC’s discuss issues and possible solutions and then share these with local decision makers in a way that suits them YAC’s decide which adult’s and service’s should attend their meetings with decision makers Page 4 ABYAC Principles Page 29
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The choice to engage on a specific issue or topic is entirely at the discretion of the Youth Action Council. How they engage with it is also at their discretion (e.g. attending a service led meeting or deciding to discuss it and feedback on their own terms). Services who engage with the Youth Action Council commit to taking forward and progressing the views the young people have shared wherever possible. Services who engage with a group commit to completing and returning an Engagement Commitment Form within eight weeks of their engagement to outline how the views that were shared have been (or will be) progressed on behalf of the young people. If it wasn’t possible or appropriate to share or progress anything the young people shared, the form should still be completed anyway to explain and outline why this was the case. ABYAC Terms of Reference ABYAC group’s are always available for consulting with and sharing their views on any issue that might affect local young people. By engaging with ABYAC at a local or area wide level, either at their Sittings or by requesting engagement on a specific issue, services who engage with ABYAC commit to the following terms of reference: The terms above are not exhaustive, and have been put in place by the young people to ensure a commitment from services and decision makers to proper engagement processes to protect against tokenistic forms of consultation. To request an engagement from ABYAC, please refer to the relevant contact on page 8. Page 7 Page 30
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Police Scotland Preventative Policing Argyll & Bute Area Community Planning Group OFFICIAL Page 31 Agenda Item 6
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Argyll Road Safety Hubs • Through 2024, we have established a very strong partnership with The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) which has allowed for the delivery of numerous community-based Road Smart events across the Authority and also within A&B secondary schools. Working together with IAM, the Camera Safety Partnership and SFRS, we have delivered inputs to A&B communities covering various topics, driver limit points, rural hazards, driver behaviour and attitudes, etc. We have also focussed on distraction, seatbelts, drink & drug driving during the events. IAM advanced drivers have been providing supervised drives with attendees providing feedback on driving styles and habits. The inputs to the high schools involved the showing of actual go-pro footage of young drivers driving out with the conditions which sadly culminated in a fatal road crash. The film is narrated by the sister of the deceased. The Safety Camera Partnership utilise VR headsets which put the user in the passenger seat of a vehicle that is involved in a crash due to distraction of the driver and then exposes the participant to the aftermath and emergency response. OFFICIAL Page 32
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Presentation to 850 Pupils OFFICIAL Page 33
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Fraud • The Preventions Team have been delivering fraud awareness sessions to as many audiences as possible. They are explaining the most common and current fraud methods, we are offering and fitting call-blockers to landlines and providing information through the DOT magazine produced by Digital Skills Education, this format can be more beneficial to the more senior members of society. We are continually promoting online safety and security via social media which includes the CyberAlarm software funded by the Home Office available to businesses allowing to scan for malware and spam. Since Police CyberAlarm launched, it has identified over a billion suspicious events resulting in reports and advice being given to members, enabling them to take action to prevent a successful attack OFFICIAL Page 34
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Missing Persons - The Herbert Protocol OFFICIAL Page 35
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Herbert continued • We are pro-actively approaching the families of known dementia sufferers to provide information around the protocol and in doing so increase their safety as people suffering from dementia are at greater risk of going missing. We have provided information and dementia packs to GPs to consider providing same to patients at the earliest opportunity. • Dementia Tags originated within Argyll & Bute and are now being rolled out nationally via Alzheimer Scotland after great success here. The tag is attached to clothing or a possession to allow concerned members of the public to scan a QR code which provides contact details for a nominated person, it does not disclose any personal data. OFFICIAL Page 36
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General Safety Advice & Help • Give information about crime 100% anonymously | Fearless | Crimestoppers • Crimestoppers in Scotland | Crimestoppers • Contact Police Scotland - Police Scotland OFFICIAL Page 37
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Page 1 of 5 Date: 22 October 2025 Argyll and Bute Climate Action: a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan for Argyll and Bute. Update to Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Area Community Planning Group 1.0 Purpose This report provides an update on overall progress with the climate change strategy, in particular on three points: • Overall progress • Legacy: progress with developing a legacy proposal, shaped by the Scottish Government’s aspirations for and funding support for Argyll as Climate Ready Region (formerly known as Regional Adaptation Partnership). • Community resilience/emergency plans: initial findings from review of existing plans and engagement with community councils 2.0 Recommendations The ACPG is asked to • Note overall progress since the August update, with some work on community resilience and legacy/ongoing partnership proposals brought forward and pushing back some work on the Action Plan, and a timeline to July 2026 • Note in particular the significance of the Scottish Government’s aspirations and support for developing an Argyll and Bute Climate Ready Region • Note the initial findings from review and engagement to date on community resilience/emergency plans, and suggest opportunities for sharing learning and best practice. 3.0 Detail 3.1 Overall progress since August ACPG meeting The funded period was originally due to end at the end of October 2025 but the CPP Management Committee agreed to reallocate elements of the budget in order to keep the project manager in post until July 2026 in order to support work on developing legacy proposals and support community councils developing resilience Page 39 Agenda Item 7a
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Page 2 of 5 plans. These new deliverables over the extended period are within the same original budget, although the project has subsequently secured further external (Scottish Government) funding to support specifics relating to the Climate Ready Region. Work with community groups on resilience is due to start in earnest in November but the project officer has been making contact with community councils and other groups across Argyll and Bute to build up a picture of what has been working well and areas on which to concentrate. In the same timeframe, the Scottish Government announced support for Argyll and Bute to develop its own regional climate adaptation partnership, as part of its aspiration for all of Scotland to develop Climate Ready Regions (formerly referred to as regional adaptation partnerships). Bringing forward work on resilience plans and Climate Ready Region development has pushed back completion of the overall Action Plan supporting the climate change strategy, in part due to the time spent on these other workstreams and in part the new workstreams necessarily generate new actions. The target to submit the draft action plan to the Climate Change Working Group and subsequently Management Committee in October is likely to slip into November (this update is written on 22 October) but the target to submit in time for the Management Committee to review at its December meeting and thereafter to publish for consultation remains. The revised timeline submitted to the CPP Management Committee is Page 40
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Page 3 of 5 3.2 Legacy/Ongoing Partnership Work: A Climate Ready Region for Argyll and Bute As noted above, the Scottish Government has provided some funding in the current financial year to support development of a Climate Ready Region for Argyll and Bute. In previous updates this has been referred to as a Regional Adaptation Partnership but the preferred Scottish Government terminology is now Climate Ready Region. The support is for: • Climate literacy and resilience training (to be delivered by Argyll & Bute Climate Action Network) • Officer time and engagement to develop proposals for governance models and business case (ABCAN and CPP Climate Change Manager) • Consultant support for governance and business case development • Plus in kind support from Verture/Adaptation Scotland An invitation to quote for the business case work is on Public Contracts Scotland at https://www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=OCT 541319 and a more detailed briefing and request for expert input to the short term working group to steer the consultants’ work has been circulated round the CPP’s Climate Change Working Group. 3.3 Community resilience/emergency plans The CPP Management Committee agreed that resilience and carbon literacy training should be foremost among the six priority areas for action in the climate change strategy and that a priority action for the climate change project manager should be to make use of available budget (the extended time in post) to support communities on climate change risk aspects of resilience plans. This is will correspond to roughly 20 days per Area if an equal number of days is allocated to each Area. The climate change project manager has reviewed existing resilience/emergency plans (the terms are frequently used interchangeably) where these are available. Some community councils and other groups may have plans that have not been made public and it is emphasised that the project manager is working under a funding agreement with the Council and other CPP funders that includes a confidentiality clause. The project manager has also met community councils or representatives thereof in all four of the Argyll and Bute administrative areas. This has been on the basis of where groups have been able to engage so far and an early task will be to develop a plan to reach as many of the community councils as feasible over the time available. Key findings so far are Page 41
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Page 4 of 5 • My role is to advise on the aspects related to climate change, but in practice these are inseparable from the many other aspects impacting upon community resilience. • I have reviewed all the existing plans that I have access to. While there are common themes, many are out of date, and they vary enormously in depth. • What they have in common is that any resilience planning is better than none. • There is sometimes confusion over terminology and whether a resilience plan is more an emergency plan of a broader social and economic resilience plan or community action plan. It may be useful to use the term “emergency plan” for clarity: the aim is to support and communities’ resilience through developing emergency plans. • Rural and isolated communities are often at greatest risk of being cut off and deprioritised due to low population, but often also have more agency. “Do nothing” while waiting for emergency services is not an option and being able to make call handlers aware that even under best case scenarios, response times are significant is seen as a valuable piece of knowledge to share. • There are widespread concerns about capacity within communities: often it is the same group of volunteers doing everything, and in some areas some 70% of the population are over 65. • On several occasions already meetings have been postponed (3 months plus) because groups are too stretched or a key person is unwell. Other groups have advised that they simply do not have capacity to engage. • Widespread agreement that the most vulnerable should be protected but concerns over GDPR implications of this. There are varying interpretations of the role of the Health & Social Care Partnership and what constitutes a vulnerable person. • HSCP, emergency services and many others do excellent work, including proactive work, much of which can go unnoticed. While there are shortcomings there is also much working well. • There is understandable reluctance to advertise either vulnerability, or conversely ownership of valuable items such as power tools, quad bikes. • Most groups say that during an emergency, people tend to pitch in but outside of emergencies people are concerned about liability issues. People are uncertain to what extent they are covered by a community council’s insurance. • Developing household resilience is highly desirable and InspirAlba and others are doing excellent work but stockpiling supplies and investing in equipment is out of reach of too many vulnerable households. • Flooding is seen as a priority in some areas but in others, the major concern is high wind and associated impacts. • SSEN etc may provide assistance to key groups during emergencies, but concerns over ability to pay and reclaim, or to be able to travel to safer locations. Page 42
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Page 5 of 5 • Concerns with telecoms and especially loss of analogue land lines: a fear expressed at various meetings is “people will die”. Some groups have expressed interest in procuring 2 way radio or satellite phones. Provision of temporary internet, such as from boat owners with satellite internet, has been seen as a very valuable improvised response in some cases. • Community Action Plans and Local Place Plans can offer valuable information and in an ideal world, combining these with developing community resilience plans would be ideal. In practice, some groups have said that they are already overstretched developing their LPPs. • General recognition that emergencies are likely to get more frequent and serious even before bringing in the climate change considerations. A specific request from the MAKI ACPG for this update is how to incorporate flooding risk/mitigation in the MAKI area, and approaches with communities in other parts of Argyll and Bute which could then be applied as an approach with communities in MAKI. • Oban, Lorne & the Isles ACPG has established an Area-level working group on resilience. This has brought its own challenges but provides an excellent means of identifying priorities and recurrent themes at Area level as well as enabling local groups to share experience and information and reducing duplication. This is the best model that has emerged so far in terms of supporting communities across an Area to develop resilience plans and to develop Area-level responses where these are appropriate. • There are some parallel processes including the SEPA-led regional flood risk assessment for Highland & Argyll, and the Coastal Change Adaptation studies led by the Council. This includes Campbeltown and I am pleased to have been invited to join the working group for this. However, Ardrishaig community council has voiced concern that Lochgilphead and Ardrishaig may not be included as part of the Coastal Change Adaptation planning. Andy Macpherson, Climate Change Project Manager For more information, please contact: Andy Macpherson andy@act-now.org.uk Page 43
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Argyll & Bute Climate Action: November 2025 update • Priority areas within the CPP’s ability to control or influence: – Infrastructure [includes natural] – Policy Influence – Skills, Procurement and Supply Chain – Resilience/Carbon Literacy – Risk Assessment – Crosscutting/Other • Ongoing work on action plan, Climate Ready Region (extra SG funding), resilience/emergency planning “We make Argyll and Bute climate ready by acting together to understand and adapt to our changing climate” 1 Page 45
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MAKI Area Community Resilience/Emergency planning • Project manager post extended to Jul 2026 incl support communities’ resilience planning: approx. 20 days per Area • This workstream to start in earnest Nov • Contacting pilot groups across A&B Areas – SK, Ardrishaig so far in MAKI 2 Contact: Andy Macpherson, ACT climate project manager andy@act-now.org.uk Page 46
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Findings so far: existing plans, engagement • Confusion over terminology. We mean emergency planning • Severe weather events and impacts getting worse irrespective of views on climate change • Lack of capacity in communities: many households and communities already overstretched • Response times in isolated areas • Who is “vulnerable” and how to protect privacy • Concerns over insurance/liability • Uncertainly over role of HSCP • Comms outages and perception of loss of copper landlines “people will die” • Where to find funding for equipment also kit choices, storage and training • Lots of good work but not always acknowledged • Local knowledge of key threats: not same in all areas • Most isolated areas often have strong skill sets and autonomy • Many areas have strong sense of community and understanding of particular needs • Lessons from covid and previous crises well embedded in some areas • Varying level of detail and ambition in plans but a little preparedness can go a long way • Scottish Govt recognition of importance of community resilience to an Argyll & Bute Climate Ready Region 3 Page 47
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group 5th November 2025 Telecare and Digital Resilience Summary The HSCP has plans in place to support Telecare users in the event of a prolonged power outage. Digital Telecare devices are dependent upon power and mobile signal in order to operate. 1. Purpose This report is to inform members of the Community Planning Group about the plans that the Telecare Service within Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership have in place to support its clients during occasions of long power cuts. 2. Recommendations 2.1 That the contents of the report are noted 2.2 That members of the Community Planning Group have conversations with family, friends, clients, community members etc who are Telecare users or who may be vulnerable in the event of a power cut to discuss their own personal communication plan in advance of an event occurring. 3. Background At a previous Community Planning Group meeting, there was a presentation from BT’s Digital Voice Engagement Lead for the Scotland region, whose role is to support customers and stakeholders through the landline switch-over. The presentation provided information about battery packs being provided to Telecare users for use in the event of a power cut. The concerns raised were that the battery provides power for a limited amount of time, and recent weather-related power cuts have lasted for many days. After discussion the Group agreed that it would be useful to know what steps would be taken by the HSCP to ensure the safety of Telecare users during long power cuts. 4. Detail Page 49 Agenda Item 8
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Across the United Kingdom, telephone lines are being upgraded from analogue to digital. BT are hoping to complete this switchover by the 31st January 2027. From a Telecare perspective, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership are migrating all Telecare users from analogue devices to digital devices. 81% of all Telecare clients in Argyll and Bute now have a digital device. The key difference when it comes to power resilience is that digital devices are reliant on power in order to operate. Analogue devices had a battery back-up which meant that they could last for 24- 48hrs in a power cut as long as the phone line was still operational. As digital phone lines are wholly dependent upon power to function, this is a concern and is why Ofcom has mandated that communication providers such as BT provide a battery back-up solution to their clients which are deemed as vulnerable, such as telecare users. BT are providing a battery back-up solution free of charge to Telecare clients, however, it’s duration is limited eg. a few hours. This is not ideal in terms when power cuts can last for a few days but it is within the Ofcom recommendations. It is worth noting that the duration of the battery reduces when used. When Storm Eowyn occurred in January 2025, parts of Argyll and Bute saw power cuts that lasted several days. In addition, as mobile masts are dependent upon power in order to operate or have very short battery back-ups, the mobile signal also went down in some areas until power was restored, making any form of communication challenging. As digital telecare devices can now make calls over broadband in addition to the mobile signal, these devices will now be able to make calls when the mobile signal is down, as long as there is power to the device. This has been a recent development which was not available to us when Storm Eowyn occurred. The Telecare Service through its Critical Activity Recovery Plan (CARP) holds lists of all Telecare clients which can be accessed in an emergency situation. During Storm Eowyn, we worked with SSE initially to identify which areas of Argyll and Bute were affected by the power cuts. We then provided a list of clients within these Page 50
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affected areas to Carr Gomm, our responder service, to carry out welfare checks – with a priority focus being those who did not already receive home care. Carr Gomm attended, provided foil blankets and warm drinks where required and reported back to the HSCP if there were any concerns. In the more recent Storm Amy in October 2025, a decision was made by Senior Management to commence welfare checks before it was known whether the mobile masts had been affected. It transpires that some of the masts have now received back-up power to protect them in a power cut which meant that the impact was not as great on this occasion as before. For the Mid Argyll and Kintyre area, clients received a welfare check from Carr Gomm if they were not receiving home care and therefore scheduled to be visited. The affected clients were within the following areas. We are grateful to Carr Gomm for reacting so swiftly. • Tarbert • Islay - Port Ellen, Portnahaven • Cairnbaan • Achnamara • Colonsay • Gigha • Muasdale • Whitehouse • Ardfern • Ford • Inveraray • Furnace • Skipness • Tayvallich In Islay, where we do not have a responder service, the on-call Social Work manager was asked to ensure welfare checks were carried out for affected residents. Whilst the HSCP can and will organise welfare checks for instances where there are prolonged power cuts, we would always recommend that Telecare users have their own additional plans to keep safe and stay connected where possible. These could include: Page 51
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• Keeping a mobile phone nearby to call for help • Arrange in advance with family/friends to check on them if there is a power cut and there has been no communication • Purchasing power banks for mobile phones to prolong battery life • Purchasing power banks for digital phone lines which have a longer battery life than the ones provided by the communication operators 5. Conclusions The HSCP has plans in place to support Telecare users in the event of a prolonged power outage. These were enacted during Storm Eowyn in January 2025 and again with Storm Amy in October 2025 and were successful. 6. CPP Outcomes Does your report relate to any of the following: Outcome Tick as appropriate (√) Community Wellbeing Housing Transport Infrastructure For further information please contact: Samantha Somers, Technology Enabled Care Lead Samantha.somers@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 52
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership MAKI Area Community Planning Group 5 November 2025 Community Planning Partnership Management Committee Meeting Highlights This briefing is for noting and relevant discussion. Summary The Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee met on 19th September 2025 in the 3 Villages Hall, Arrochar. The highlights from this meeting are here for the interest of members of the Area Community Planning Group. Access to the reports and full agenda is found by following this link – Agenda for Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership - Management Committee on Friday, 19 September 2025, 10:00 am - Argyll and Bute Council Highlights CPP Improvement Plan Gary I’Anson, Acting Chair of the CPP Management Committee, highlighted the progress made against the actions in the CPP Improvement Plan, notably the updated Welcome Pack and the Community Planning podcast. Fair Funding Guidance John McLuckie provided an update on Fair Funding Guidance for the Voluntary Sector. A paper outlining the principles of fair funding for the voluntary sector was submitted to Argyll and Bute Full Council on 26 June 2025 – item 12 on Full Council agenda pack The Council agreed to sign up to the principles of the guidance and to work towards the aspirations the guidance contains. It was agreed that the paper can be used as a template for Community Planning Partners to use within their own organisations with progress to be reviewed at the December CPP Management Committee meeting. It was noted that the CPP cannot sign up to the guidance as a partnership unless all partners sign up to the principles. Climate Change Page 53 Agenda Item 9
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Andy Macpherson highlighted the Scottish Government aspiration to establish Regional Adaptation Partnerships across the country, through the existing Climate Action Network structure. Andy advised that funds have been obtained to develop a business case for an Argyll and Bute Regional Adaptation Partnership, and it was agreed that CPP partners would be invited to join a Short Life Working Group to develop the business case. It was noted that any funded development work may require a change to the Terms of Reference for the CPP Climate Change Steering Group however it was agreed this was not required immediately. Community Wealth Building Charter Susan MacRae, Skills Development Scotland, provided an update on behalf of the Community Wealth Building (CWB) Steering Group, which also includes Takki Sulamain, Argyll and Bute TSI; Alison McGrory, NHS Highland; Morag Goodfellow, HIE; and Ishabel Bremner, Argyll and Bute Council. Susan highlighted the CWB charter compiled by the group, with partners asked to review this within their organisations and confirm if they are willing to sign up at the December CPP Management Committee meeting. The Charter outlines the CPP’s commitment to, and its vision and shared principles on CWB, the role of partners as Anchor Institutions and next steps aligning with the Argyll and Bute Outcomes Improvement Plan, Argyll and Bute Council’s Economic Strategy and Climate Action priorities. Susan noted that Skills Development Scotland are one of the first anchor institutions to sign the charter and added that all CPP organisations are likely to be regarded as anchor organisations (those organisations present in a place, large scale employers, purchasers of local goods and services, etc). Area Community Planning Group (ACPG) Updates Gary I’Anson noted the paper reporting on the ACPG meetings held in August 2025, with the following points highlighted by the Community Planning team: - The appointment of Gill Simpson as Chair of Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group and the forthcoming appointment of a new Vice Chair at the November meeting. - The completion of Ian Brodie’s term as as Vice Chair of MAKI Area Community Planning Group. Priority Outcome – Transport Infrastructure Rona advised that a summary of the actions agreed at the CPP Management Committee Transport Infrastructure session in June will be circulated to those who attended. Partners will be invited to raise any concerns on content, with a follow-up session scheduled to provide an opportunity for final content amendment, following which a governance structure will be created to deliver the agreed actions. Partners were reminded that the actions had been created from discussions with partners and Page 54
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the wider community, looking at what was already being done and what the CPP can add value to. Priority Outcome - Housing Rona provided an overview of the Housing priority outcome, noting the six actions agreed by the CPP and the six actions from the Housing Emergency Summit which require CPP input, and highlighting that a number of actions are either underway or have been completed. The actions still to be started would form the basis of the discussions in the breakout sessions. Rona reaffirmed the importance of working with the Area Community Planning Groups both in terms of input to the overall CPP actions and feedback from this CPP event to help shape local actions. Presentations were delivered under the heading of ‘housing actions in the pipeline’ by Douglas Whyte, Housing Strategy Team Lead for Argyll and Bute Council; Ronnie MacRae, Housing Delivery Manager for SSEN; Morven Fancey, Head of Housing, Skills and Population at HIE; Michelle Mundie, Chief Executive of ACHA; and John Forbes, Community-led Housing Coordinator for Communities Housing Trust. All slides from the presentations are available through the link at the top of this highlight report. Attendees participated in breakout groups for the majority of the day, focused on shaping the six CPP housing actions not yet started: 1. Establish a construction skills development working group 2. Establish a partner land and assets working group; Identify and map public sector land and buildings which could provide workforce and affordable housing via repurposing and change of use. 3. Communication plan on financial interventions to prevent homelessness 4. Freedom to use Scottish Government housing funding more flexibly and as an allocation with local administrative control 5. Develop a strategic approach to evidencing the need for workforce housing in the public sector 6. Incorporate energy discussion points within CPP Climate Change Strategy Gary thanked everyone for their contributions to the discussions on Housing. The CPP team will share the outputs from these discussions and will arrange an online follow up session for attendees to make any further comments on the actions. Introduction to Priority Outcome – Community Wellbeing Rona introduced Community Wellbeing which will be the topic of the December CPP Management Committee meeting, and reminded partners of the long-term Community Wellbeing objectives agreed in the Argyll and Bute Outcomes Improvement Plan: - Broadening equality of access to Community Leadership opportunities - Furthering equality of access to services, facilities and community assets - Working with partners to maximise sustainability of community facilities and services Page 55
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- Enabling a voice in collective decision making
- Enhancing communication within communities
- Better understanding how communities achieve a sense of connection and
belonging
Close
Gary thanked everyone for attending and for their contributions to the complex topic
of Housing, noting it had been an excellent opportunity to meet and build
relationships for the work that the CPP needs to take forward.
For More Information:
John McLuckie, Partnerships Lead, john.mcluckie@argyll-bute.gov.uk
Full minutes of CPP Management Committee meetings are found here: {Browse
meetings - Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership - Management
Committee - Argyll and Bute Council}
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1 Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership Area Community Planning Group Partnership update Date: November 2025 Partner update – Public Health Smoking Cessation – Stoptober campaign Stoptober is a national campaign encouraging people to quit smoking. The A&B Public Health team has developed a local campaign to raise awareness of the free NHS support available to people who want to quit. For the month of October, NHS Highland Smoke-Free Service is encouraging people to quit together. People are up to five times more likely to quit for good if they make it to 28 days smoke-free. https://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/news/2025/09/stoptober-campaign-launches-in- highland-argyll-and-bute/ Our smoking cessation advisers are working with local pharmacies to ensure people across Argyll and Bute have easy access to tailored support https://www.ablivingwell.org/smoking-cessation Gypsy/Traveller community event A health event was held in Adrishaig on 1st October for the local Gypsy/Traveller community. Organised by MECOPP's Community Health Worker, and funded by the Screening Inequalities Funding, this event was supported by many partner agencies. The health event aimed to raise awareness of health interventions including NHS Health Screening and Smoking Cessation, as well as information from AliEnergy, Page 57 Agenda Item 11a
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2 Scottish Fire and Rescue, Dochas and many other agencies. The event was well attended with positive feedback. Joint Strategic Plan Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is developing a new Joint Strategic Plan for 2026 – 2031. Integration Joint Boards (IJBs) are required to create a Joint Strategic Plan (JSP). This is a high level plan of how the IJB will manage and deliver health and social care services using the resources and budgets they control. They must review and update this plan at least once every three years. Our proposed priorities: • Priority 1: Preventative and Community Based Care • Priority 2: Integrated and Person Centred Care • Priority 3: Financial and System Sustainability • Priority 4: Healthy and Engaged Workforce • Priority 5: Access and Tackling Health Inequality • Priority 6: Digital Transformation We will be consulting with communities, partners, and stakeholders between 10 October to 10 January 2025. We will communicate in person, online and through press during this period, but you can register or subscribe on the NHS Highland Engagement Hub to keep up to date with how this consultation is progressing. In October, the HSCP ran a series of Community Drop-ins to listen to communities to hear their views about the new Joint Strategic Plan. Have your say - help shape health and social care in Argyll and Bute | NHS Highland Watch out for our online survey here: NHS Highland Engagement Hub Page 58
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3 S2 Dramas The ‘You Are Not Alone’ drama performances for S2 pupils took place in September 2025 across eight secondary schools in Argyll and Bute. Three stories were embedded within the performance: Molly’s Story (about sending naked photos), Joel’s Story (about vaping) and Rob’s Story (about self-harm). Evidence shows that these are all relevant health issues experienced by many children and young people locally and nationally. The performance was followed by workshop discussions led by the Guidance Teachers with the support of attending partners from The Police’s Youth Engagement Officers, School Support Service and The Exchange. Planet Youth Update Planet Youth is a community-based framework focused on improving young people’s health, wellbeing, and relationships by working with parents, carers, schools, communities and organisations. It focuses on increasing protective factors and reducing risk factors to help children and young people make better and safer choices about their wellbeing. Over the last two years in Argyll and Bute, five secondary schools and communities have been avidly involved with Planet Youth. In 2025 Planet Youth continues to grow locally with all ten state secondary schools now on-board. Page 59
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4 A Planet Youth community event, ‘Growing up in Oban’, took place in September This was a great opportunity for families, children and young people to see the vast variety of fantastic clubs, activities and groups available locally. Approximately 200 community members attended and the feedback was excellent. On 19th November 2025, the Planet Youth team will be hosting Youth Voice Conference in Kilmory Chambers which aims to: amplify the voices of young people and enable them to share their live experiences, priorities and ideas directly with decision-makers, inform strategic planning, and celebrate and embed Youth Voice as a vital force in building a healthier, safer and more hopeful future for Argyll and Bute. If you require further information please contact argyllandbute@planetyouth.scot Equality Outcomes – Accessible Easy Read version An Easy Read version of the NHS Highland Equality Outcomes (2025–2029) has now been co-designed and tested with children, people whose first language is not English and people with a learning disability. This accessible version will make the Equality Outcomes more meaningful and user-friendly for the public. Although the official launch is not until later in the month, we wanted to highlight this development as it reflects a growing commitment to ensuring our plans are accessible to all. Speakeasy The first Speakeasy 'taster' webinars were held on 24th September. Speakeasy is a learning programme for parents, carers and adults working with children and young people, delivered informally as one off session or a block of up to eight sessions. It: • Helps to tackle complicated and difficult issues around children growing up, including body changes, safety and relationships and sexual health. • Works with groups of parents and carers to provide age-appropriate information, resources and support to enable them to confidently discuss these subjects in the home. • The course helps parents to build on what they already know about growing up relationships and sex to help children make safer choices. This is supported by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Curriculum for Excellence and reflects the results shown in The Chat research: theChat.scot – the Chat is a conversation with parents and carers about where, what, when, why and how children and young people learn about relationships, sexual health and parenthood. Page 60
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5 42 people attended the sessions, which evaluated positively. Discussions are ongoing regarding taking this forward, both as webinars and face-to-face delivery. Public Health Scotland (PHS) report on emergency hospital admissions and deaths as a result of unintentional injury Unintentional injury is a major cause of premature death and ill health in Scotland. Unintentional injuries can occur in any age group, but children and the elderly are more vulnerable. The term ‘unintentional injury’ is used rather than ‘accidents’ as ‘accident’ implies that events are unavoidable when a high proportion of these incidents are preventable e.g. falls, road traffic accidents etc. PHS will be publishing an annual unintentional injury annual report on October 28th. While the report itself it is at a national level, analysis is provided down to Local Council level in additional tables. The Public Health team would like to report back on A&B data for consideration at the next ACPG meeting. Argyll and Bute Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) The ADP is delighted to launch the ADP Strategy 2025-2027, which focuses on the three pillars of Prevention, Recovery Orientated Systems of Care (ROSC) and a Public Health Approach to Justice. The strategy outlines the priorities identified by the ADP, stakeholders and national directives, acknowledging the changing environment with national plans and challenging financial climate. It includes evidence from local data, stakeholder engagement, national strategy and frameworks. The golden thread running through the strategy is a focus to strengthen our partnerships as the foundation of all our activity, working closely with people with lived and living experience. In addition to the document, a short animated video about the strategy has also been produced. The ADP Support Team has produced the first ADP Bulletin, which highlights some of the recent activity within the ADP and community ADP Autumn Bulletin ADP Support Team look forward to producing regular bulletins and welcome feedback on what Community Planning Partners would like to see. The ADP Annual Report 2024-2025 is also available, the report demonstrates with wide range of activities, progress and developments delivered throughout the year. The Medically Assisted Treatment Standards (MAT) Experiential Programme Report for 2024 – 2025 has also been shared to inform feedback and further improvements in developing MAT Standards. The strategy and reports are available to view on https://www.argyllandbuteadp.info/resources-and-links-W21page-5 Page 61
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6 REPORT AUTHOR AND CONTACT Author Names: Angela Coll Health Improvement Senior Email: nhsh.abhealthimprovement@nhs.scot Page 62
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands CPG Briefing Report Q2 2025/26 Performance & Activity Report From: 1st July 2025 To: 30th September 2025 Page 63 Agenda Item 12b
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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 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. About the statistics within this report The activity totals and other statistics quoted within this report are published in the interests of transparency and openness. They are provisional in nature and subject to change as a result of ongoing quality assurance and review. Because all statistics quoted are provisional there may be a difference in the period totals quoted in our reports after local publication which result from revisions or additions to the data in our systems. The Scottish Government publishes official statistics each year which allow for comparisons to be made over longer periods of time. Report Generated on 24/10/2025 Page 64
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Mid Argyll Q2 2025-26 Page 65
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Kintyre & the Islands Q2 2025-26 Page 66
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Community Safety & Engagement Argyll & Bute Fire Skills The first Fire Skills course at Oban Fire Station was a success, thanks to the commitment and teamwork of the young participants. They took part in practical activities aimed at building confidence, learning new skills, and working together. Their enthusiasm made the experience positive and impactful. Thanks also go to partner organisations Developing the Young Workforce, Live Argyll, Scottish Ambulance Service, and Argyll & Bute Education for their support. Station Open Days This summer, fire stations in Helensburgh, Lochgoilhead, Tobermory, and Oban welcomed the public for a series of open days. Visitors had the chance to meet local crews, explore fire and rescue equipment, and take part in activities focused on safety and awareness. The events helped strengthen ties with the community and offered valuable insights into the work of our teams. We’re grateful to our youth volunteers and partner organisations support, and everyone who donated to local charities. Your support made a real difference. We look forward to welcoming you again at future events. Page 67
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Road & Water Safety During this reporting period, we’ve continued collaborating with partners across Argyll & Bute, including Police Scotland, the RNLI, and local businesses, to support road and water safety campaigns across the local authority area. We remain active in the Partnership Approach to Water Safety (PAWS) and regularly attend Argyll & Bute’s quarterly safety meetings. Our Community Action Team and local crews have also delivered Water Safety Scotland presentations in schools, helping raise awareness and promote safer behaviours around water. We supported this year's World Drowning Prevention Day at Lomond Shores, Loch Lomond, by providing water safety information and demonstrating a simulated water rescue using our dedicated water safety resources. Community Action Team • Post Domestic Incident Response (PDIR) following every domestic incident: Offers homeowners a free safety check and installation of alarms where applicable. • 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 • Engaging with communities utilising Summer/Autumn Thematic Action Plans TAP (Thematic Action Plan) Page 68
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• Establishing “Referral Pathways” with our partnership agencies. Empowering new referral groups to help us arrange Home Fire Safety Visits for some of our most vulnerable groups in our communities. Page 69
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liveArgyll Community Learning Team Kintyre Youth Work Update November 2025 Kintyre Youth Action Group The Kintyre LiveArgyll Youth Work Service facilitates weekly meetings with the Kintyre Youth Action Group (based in Campbeltown and Tarbert). The Action Group carry out local community projects and regularly volunteer and represent young people’s views in the area by carrying out weekly meetings which involve regular focus groups and large-scale youth consultations on a two-yearly basis. The input from the Action Group ensures the local youth work service is entirely youth led by focussing on local youth views, issues and areas the young people would like to develop. The Action Group have recently developed their own youth led voice model alongside Bute Youth Action Group, which is now being rolled out across Argyll and Bute and is known as Argyll and Bute Youth Action Council (ABYAC). The Action Group are always available to consult with and to provide youth voice/perspectives on any issue, so please contact Jamie.titterton@liveargyll.co.uk if you have any enquiries. West Dumbartonshire Youth Voice Visit As part of their ongoing youth voice development work, members of Kintyre Youth Action Group and Bute Youth Action Group recently visited members of the West Dumbartonshire youth voice model. The young people spent the day together, getting to know each other, learning about each other’s respective models, their local areas, and exploring youth issues in the two different areas – common issues, as well as differences across the regions. The group learned a lot from this experience, and it allowed them to further develop their youth voice network and skills. A return visit from the young people of West Dumbartonshire will be arranged in the near future. Page 71 Agenda Item 12c
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NSPCC Child Safety Online Project Kintyre Youth Action Group members also continued their youth voice work by supporting the NSPCC to develop their current ‘Child Safety Online Campaign.’ The group took time out to work alongside staff and young people from the Scottish Youth Parliament to look at issues relating to child safety online; creating posters and recording podcast clips to support the project and ensure that local youth views are taken into account in the development of this very important project. Kintyre and Bute Exchange Visit and Surfing As part of their ongoing joint work, Bute Youth Action Group once again came to visit the Kintyre Youth Action Group recently, with the groups taking part in an overnight exchange which involved activities, including surfing lessons at Westport Beach with Pete’s Surf School. The young people had a wonderful time trying something new and enjoying one of the many fun activities available on their doorstep. Plans for further follow up lessons will be arranged for the Spring. Page 72
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Youth Voice Showcase – The Queen’s Hall, Dunoon (24th of November) Our Youth Action Groups and Council’s across Argyll and Bute are currently preparing for their Youth Voice Showcase event in The Queen’s Hall Dunoon on Monday the 24th of November. This will mark the official launch of the local authority wide Argyll and Bute Youth Action Council (ABYAC), the development of which has been led by members of the Kintyre and Bute Youth Action Group’s. This is an exciting and unique opportunity to learn about youth voice across Argyll and Bute and to find out more about how services and decision makers can better support it, as well as their own implementation of the UNCRC article 12. Page 73
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If any relevant partners would be interested in attending this event, please email Jamie.titterton@liveargyll.co.uk for more information or to book your space. Kintyre Youth Voice Ambassador’s Being introduced at the Showcase event will be new Youth Voice Ambassador’s who are currently going through the process of being elected by the local Youth Action Group’s. These experienced and talented young people will take a lead role in developing youth voice across Argyll and Bute as part of their new ABYAC model. More information on the two successful candidates representing Kintyre will be provided at the next meeting. Regular Ongoing Projects • Wider Achievement Accredited Awards in Campbeltown Grammar School, Tarbert Academy, and Islay High School • Music/Arts Group • Writing Group • Inclusion Group Please contact Jamie.titterton@liveargyll.co.uk for any questions, comments, networking, or partnership working suggestions. Page 74
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Adult Learning Adult Learning continue to work with a wide range of partners to provide support to adults within the community to reduce unemployment, improve well-being, and promote lifelong learning. Adult Learning in Mid Argyll Skills for Life, Learning and Work: Mid Argyll Community Learning & Employability Hub- continues to run every Tuesday 10am-12pm in the MAYDS building, Lochgilphead. The hub is led by Adult Learning with partners attending weekly including Job Centre Plus/DWP and Carr Gomm. Together partners provide information, learning, support, advice, and signposting related to employability, digital skills, further education, and various life challenges. The Hub can have up to twenty people attending at one time who need assistance and learning in relation to building their core life and employability skills. Importantly, the hub is a place for people to connect and helps to reduce social isolation alongside building social skills, confidence, and self-esteem. Advocacy Services are currently attending weekly and ACHA monthly to provide advice and support and other partners including Occupational Health, Welfare Rights and Community Development link in and attend the service when appropriate or if a need is identified. Local Councillor, Jan Brown joined the Community Learning and Employability Hub on the 14th of October 2025 to listen to community views and concerns and plans to hold more councillor surgeries at the hub in the coming months. Mid Argyll Employability and Services Fair was held on the 21st October 2025 at Lochgilphead Community Centre, planned in partnership with JCP/DWP. There were eight services and employers in attendance to offer advice and opportunities to twenty-seven people from the local community. Digital Skills: Mid Argyll Digital Skills for Life- has been a success and is continuing, 10am-12pm every Monday at Lochgilphead Community Centre. Those attending are improving their digital skills for life and work as they engage in learning programmes tailored to suit their individual need. The learners enjoy the relaxed, friendly environment that in turn allows them to develop their communication and social skills as they interact and support each other on their learning journey. Once learners have completed their programme, they have the opportunity to progress on to accredited learning with one of the group members already feeling confident enough to move forward and undertake an SQA in Information Communication Technology 4. Out and About Digital Skills – Adult Learning and our new Digital Skills Volunteer provided a learning session at the MS Argyll- Snowdrop Centre on 28th October 2025 for one of their Health and Wellbeing Page 75 Agenda Item 12d
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Groups. Adult Learning were asked to provide a tailored session for the group of sixteen focused on improving confidence and knowledge in relation to online safety and using WhatsApp effectively as a group. Health and Wellbeing: Mid Argyll Let’s Grow Group continue to meet every Thursday 10am at the Lochgilphead Community Centre Garden space. Learner’s attending are adults 18 – 65+ who are all disadvantaged in some way, in relation to their health and wellbeing. The group are continuing to collaborate on the centre garden project and are working to make it a vibrant space for our community. They have worked hard as a team over the summer and into autumn to improve and maintain the space and to grow produce in the garden as they develop their learning and skills alongside improving their wellbeing through group participation in the outdoors. Mid Argyll Women Coming Together continue to meet every Wednesday 10-12pm, currently in Lochgilphead Community Centre. The group is aimed at women in our rural setting who are socially isolated, who face health and wellbeing challenges, and who want to connect with other women in Mid Argyll. The group are improving their wellbeing, learning, and development alongside engaging in peer support and shared life experiences. The group are currently working towards their Festive Fundraising project and members of the group recently attended Mental Health First Aid Training with their Adult Learning worker. Please contact Linda.Tough@liveargyll.co.uk for any questions, comments, networking, or partnership working suggestions. Adult Learning in Kintyre Well-being Crafty Tuesday occurs weekly from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Kintyre Community Centre. The group offers a crucial support network for people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s, as well as their families and caregivers. This project creates a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment where participants can participate in meaningful activities, enjoy companionship, and feel a sense of community and belonging. Each week, participants engage in a variety of creative and social activities. These activities help stimulate memory and creativity, encourage social interaction, and enhance emotional well-being for everyone involved. Crafty Tuesday consistently provides comfort, connection, and joy to participants. It offers carers and family members valuable social support and gives those living with dementia opportunities to express themselves and connect positively with others in a relaxed, friendly environment. Forget Me Not Choir Project As part of my ongoing involvement with community wellbeing initiatives, I have been working alongside The Forget Me Not Choir to deliver a collaborative project aimed at supporting adults living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. The Forget Me Not Choir was established in response to the increasing need for meaningful social and cognitive support for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia within our community. Research and experience have demonstrated that music can play a powerful role in stimulating memory, lifting mood, and enhancing communication — even when other forms of engagement become more difficult. Recognising this, the project was created to combine the Page 76
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therapeutic benefits of music with opportunities for social connection, gentle learning, and community inclusion. The Kintyre Choir started in September and meets every Thursday at the Kintyre Community Centre from 1.30 pm to 3.00 pm. Skills for Life Learning and Work SQA Awards As part of Adult Learning's commitment to personal development and lifelong learning, I continue to deliver SQA Awards in Wellbeing and Working with Others. These programmes aim to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills among participants through practical, learner-centred activities. The awards are delivered through a blended learning approach, combining group discussions, practical tasks, and reflective exercises. Learners are encouraged to explore and understand the importance of personal well-being, including emotional, social, and physical health. Develop effective communication and collaboration skills through shared projects and problem-solving activities. Learners have shown high levels of engagement and enthusiasm throughout the delivery. The inclusive and supportive environment has helped individuals to build confidence, express themselves, and work effectively as part of a team. The delivery of the Wellbeing and Working with Others awards has a positive impact on participants’ self-awareness, motivation, and interpersonal skills. Employability The Kintyre Workshop / Hub runs every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Kintyre Community Centre. With support from Job Centre Plus, the workshop helps people looking for work or wanting to build skills. We offer practical help, including writing CVs and job applications, preparing for interviews, and sharing information about local jobs. Learners gain skills, confidence, and motivation. They also meet others, share experiences, and feel more positive about their future. The workshop helps people take steps towards work or personal development in a supportive environment. We also focus on wellbeing, giving participants a friendly, safe space where they feel supported, listened to, and respected. Digital Skills The Digital Skills Group has recently started and runs every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Currently, 6 learners attend the sessions. The group provides a friendly and supportive space for adults to improve their confidence and ability in using digital technology. The group focuses on practical digital skills, including: • Online safety, such as recognising scams and keeping personal information secure • Basic computing, including creating, saving, and organising documents • Using apps and online services, such as online shopping, email, and video calls • Exploring the internet safely for information and everyday tasks Sessions are hands-on and interactive, allowing learners to practice skills in real time with guidance and support. Activities are tailored to the needs of the earners, ensuring everyone progresses at their own pace. The learners are enthusiastic and engaged, supporting each other and sharing tips, creating a collaborative and encouraging atmosphere. Please contact Dawn.Park@liveargyll.co.uk for any questions, comments, networking, or partnership working suggestions. Page 77
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Report – Shopper-Aide Following on from the Shopper-Aide survey report earlier in 2025, Antonia Baird (Argyll and Bute Council) worked with us to set up a Focus Group Listening Café which took place on 1st September in Campbeltown. We were looking at three main points – 1.What does independence mean for an older person 2.What does Shopper-Aide do well and what more could they do, 3. What more can be done for older people in Kintyre. Attendance was not great – public 60+ years were invited along with representatives from Health and Social Care departments and other service organisations who connected with older people. Also attending were Councillors Douglas McFadzean and John Armour. The session was over 4 hours and we had apologies from a number of people who due to health, weather and time constraints were unable to attend. Thus there was a majority of people from work place at the Campbeltown group. Visits were later made to two older people groups in Southend and Carradale to ascertain views there. Results from each group brought up some interesting points with regard to how the questions were perceived and answered. However, many points were common to all three groups and at the same time highlighted that issues from the survey were also shown to be of the most concern for older people in Kintyre. Accessible transport especially in rural areas, signposting information about resources – how do people know what is going on or who to contact – there is the assumption everyone is digitally connected. Being able to maintain physical health and functioning – including the use of aids and adaptations if it means staying at home with the opportunity to stay connected to the local community. More support workers who can spend more of their allocated time to help reduce isolation and loneliness. Having a good support network to help people stay in their own home. Independence is different for everyone; including the ability to do things that they value. Making your own decisions – even if it takes time and can change as you age e.g. doing a task, how can you make it safe, having self-respect and not being written off or lumped together (just because you are over a certain age), being able to drive especially in rural areas with no other transport means. The question on Shopper-Aide itself was very positive – for which I, Susan Paterson, was very pleased about and we did have some suggestions of what more we could do and this will help towards guidance for funding. Page 79 Agenda Item 12e
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Shopper-Aide was seen to be a ‘vital service’ for many – personal contact both in person and via phone, providing welfare checks for clients whether already getting support from other services or not. Their expertise in being able to adapt services as clients age. While there was much praise for Shopper-Aide, staff volunteers and the services they do it is noted that with funding more could be done but there also needs to be cooperation from other agencies. While more volunteers would be good we cannot rely on them to ensure services are covered fully and staffing, running vehicles and managing is also costly. The third question looked at what could be better as a whole there are many common points from each of the groups and ones which need to be addressed to help, not just Shopper-Aide but services in general. STRENGTHS TO GROW • Transport • Social groups • Signposting • Physical activity • Healthy eating BARRIERS TO DELIVERY • Funding • Lack of Volunteers • Distances • Cost of maintaining vehicles and recruiting drivers • Inconsistent links with HSCP Furthermore, who takes responsibility to address these points: Statutory services – lack of funding and not in their remit covers many of these points Third Sector – Charities, Social Enterprise, voluntary groups/people – all of which takes time and money. The Southend group would like to set up a lunch club but as illustrated above – from organising, funding and managing it is a costly and time consuming task. Conclusion – Common problems which are barriers to support include - transport needs, lack of sign posting/need a Directory of contacts, funding to help with staffing and running costs for various organisations, volunteers to help support services. However, it would be impossible for Shopper-Aide to be able to take on ways to address these issues on their own or without funding and support from statutory and independent services to improve the lives of many in their third age. Page 80
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Tarbert & Skipness Community Trust During 2024-2025 Tarbert & Skipness Community Trust has dispersed over £200k in grants. Over the past 8 years the Trust has supported 35 local organisations which help our communities; these range from maintenance grants to keep our clubs and community buildings going, sports grants, health and well being grants, and grants to our events and festivals. The Trust held a drop in event in August to update the Tarbert & Skipness Community Plan. This happens annually and residents of our communities are invited to give their views on what they want to see happening in Tarbert As ever, housing was a key issue. The allocation in the 2022 Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 15 houses by 2025, has not been realised and has now been put back to 2026-27. A new SHIP for 2025 will be published soon. Other issues raised at the consultation were: • 40mph from Carrick cemetery and 20mph from the current 30mph limit • More recycling bins and bigger bins. Take bins off pathways at Undercliffe. • Parking and hook ups for campervans. Where are campervans able to park safely in Tarbert? • Lorry, car and mobility parking. • TARBERT HOTEL - what can be done? • More things for young people • Community bus routes The Trust bought the old Fisherman's Co-op in 2024. Now Quay Spaces, it is currently under renovation. At the meeting people were asked to give their ideas to help the Trust in developing their strategy for the building. Ideas were: • Small space private counselling eg debt counselling • Space for therapeutic health care eg podiatry • Craft spaces for personal and taught crafts • Co-working spaces for small businesses, agencies eg ACHA and ALIEnergy • Mens' shed • Young peoples online gaming sessions • Small business start ups Page 81 Agenda Item 12f
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• Hot desking The building is currently under refurbishment and due to open, at least in part, by spring 2026. It is going to be an exciting time. The Trust is a charity, run by volunteers. Page 82
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Transport Scotland Update The majority of our cyclic maintenance works are now complete although weekly road & bridge inspections, ditching works & weed control are still ongoing. TS/BEAR Scotland have recently completed works; • A83 Further landscape/vegetation removal works between Tarbert & Lochgilphead • A83 Re-surfacing works at Tayinloan, Kilkenzie to Westport & Port Ann • A83 Kilmory RAB safety improvements • A83 Bend signing improvements between Minard & Lochgilphead Stoom Amy happened on 3rd October resulting with an issue of a number of fallen trees to attend to resulting with a closure of the A83 at Drishaig. For information, just before 10pm on Friday evening, BEAR specialist landscaping team was made aware of this incident, however, following an assessment of the tree, it’s surrounding area and considering the deteriorating weather conditions, it was deemed unsafe to attempt to remove the tree in darkness. BEAR Scotland managed to clear enough debris from the area to allow one lane of the A83 to reopen around 9am along with additional specialist support in the daylight hours to reopen the road in both directions just before midday. RaBT; • Further to hillside inspections, a sizable boulder has been identified for removal in order to protect A83t. Works planned for 27th October for 3 days and entail helicopter lifts over 2 days for mobilisation/demobilisation and removal works. Due to safety risks there is a requirement to use the long diversion on 28th October, anticipating that the A83t will re-open no later than 30th October – Further update will be provided at the meeting. • As a result, the westbound & phase 12 drainage improvements have since been suspended or moved to out with a safety exclusion zone until removal works have been completed • The hillside is being monitored continuously by our dedicated team as per our Landslide Management Plan Page 83 Agenda Item 12g
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• At Cairndow, we are still awaiting SSE to confirm the electrical connection required to enable the new signage • Other works still to be implemented at RaBT, noting that the full programme is still be determined; 1. Westbound & Phase 12 Drainage Improvements – (currently ongoing) 2. Catch fence repairs, various phases, working on the upper slopes 3. Further works required to improve the lower slopes with full extent to be confirmed 4. Further Improvement works at Glen Kinglas incl. landslip interventions & culvert/drainage clearing Wider A83T; • Resurfacing works are planned for Drum, Stronachullin, Bellochantuy, Leamnamuic, Erines Bends, Glaschonie & Low Ballevain • VRS improvement/replacement works are ongoing at Clachan until the end of November • VRS works at Westport now planned for January 2026 • Active Travel scheme with Campbeltown is still being planned to complete the crossing facilities this financial year • Route road markings & studs replacement including the use of milled-in studs will be completed this financial year • Strone Point Netting Replacement has been designed and the site works are currently being programmed for later this financial year • Tarbet to Campbelltown drainage ditching works are ongoing Other Points of Interest; • Erines widening scheme design, although within it’s early stages, is continuing to be developed • Westport link footway design will commence this financial year • West Loch Tarbert, Loch Gilp (Ardrishaig) & North of Aray Bridge locations are currently being considered for an automated flood warning system, however, this would follow a successful trial elsewhere on the network and further risk assessments at each location Page 84
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• Inveraray Seawall GPR Survey with a target to deliver these works in Q3 2025 • Dunderave Drainage investigation to commence on Q3 2025 The implementation of the 20mph zones within a number of towns within the Kintyre peninsula is nearing completion, with a briefing note sent out last month providing information for the wider group & public. In addition, BEAR are currently developing a scheme to cut back the vegetation harder/further on the A83T, to be implemented during autumn/winter this year. Page 85
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1 | FLS/MAKI update | Jeni West | November 2025 Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) update November 2025 Land Management Plans (LMPs) Lussa • Proposals being designed for LMP revision. South Knapdale • Proposals being designed and scoped out. East Loch Awe • Scoping undertaken. Drop-in consultation events proposed for Nov/Dec 2025. Ormaig & Salachry • Submitted to Scottish Forestry (SF) March 2025, due on Public Register November 2025. Other information Carradale Deer Hill felling coupes underway. Deer Hill flailing November 2025. Beinn Ghuilean Programmed to commence January 2026. Kilmichael Felling due to commence in Succoth, Kilmichael Glen, with extraction on public road. Extensive project with operations for the Balfour Beatty/SSE substation works ongoing, disruptions to the Achnabreac Firetower trail. Updates/changes will be made on FLS website. Storm damage- areas surveyed following latest storm, works prioritized and ongoing. Page 87 Agenda Item 12h
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