Community Toolkit

WORDS ROSE MOGGACH

Download your copy at

www.ruralyouthproject.com/learn/community-toolkit

Atheme which has permeated almost every

story shared in this magazine has been the impact of the pandemic, and what this has meant for both individuals, and the significance of their communities. Now, we do not simply uphold the geographical definition of a community, which concerns groups of people in the same region or demographic. We extend our characterisation of community to include individuals unified over a shared vision.

Depopulation of rural areas continues to be a global concern, but what if we could think of a way to help keep people in the places they call home, and develop strong, vibrant communities which could support a whole range of businesses, social enterprises, and other initiatives for greater good as a result? On the back of this philosophy, and following on from previous RYP activities that have centred around collaboration, education and confidence-building and taken the form of training workshops, ideas cafés and learning journeys, we have crafted a ‘Community Toolkit’. It has also derived from calls from communities all over Scotland who want to better equip themselves with the know-how for activating prosperity in their rural areas.

So, ‘what it this Community Toolkit?’ you may ask. Well, if you live (or want to live) in a rural area; you want to understand how ‘community’ works; and you want to effectively engage with your community to get an idea you may have off the ground – then this is for you! A collection of practical steps to take and accompanying case studies for each stage in action, this free downloadable document exists to help you get to where you want to be, and tackle, head-on, what you want to achieve within your community or fundamentally, how to foster it.

So, what are some of the phases listed in our handbook for building community? First of all, we acknowledge the importance of having a solid vision of what you would like your community to look like in the future, as this will underpin all future activities. Only then can you get out there, get to know your community and discover new unknowns about your place. Then, it is time to tell your story. A strong communications strategy that connects you to others is essential. We later go through what it takes to effectively engage with and influence those you approach, highlighting the importance of utilising a tailored plan. Then, it is imperative to reflect on your activities so that you remain adaptable and resilient when faced unexpected challenges. Once all this has been accomplished, you live it! We demonstrate how to keep going once you have established yourself, and get the most out of your endeavours.

As Donald, one of our case study stars puts it: “Your ideas are as good as anyone’s. Now, more than ever, we encourage you to join hands with your community and have confidence in the knowledge that great things can be achieved when collaboration is held at the heart. This toolkit is by no means an exhaustive methodology for creating and sustaining community, but the hope is that by sharing useful tips alongside inspiring stories, it can stimulate strong and vibrant rural areas now, and in years to come.