Celebrating the legacy of Tyne and Esk Community Funding

Tyne and Esk Community Led Local Development (CLLD) programme has made a significant impact on rural communities in East Lothian and Midlothian. Since November 2022, over half a million pounds has been awarded to 52 projects, supporting local groups, individuals, and businesses in advancing inclusion, equality, and diversity.

On 14 March, a celebratory event was held at Edinburgh College, Milton Road, where recipients of the CLLD funding and members of the Local Action Group gathered. Special guest Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, praised the programme's success and its lasting legacy.

Anne Hastie, Co-chair of the Local Action Group, highlighted the positive feedback and connections made through the programme. Ms Gougeon emphasized the transformative power of community-led investment, noting that more than £29 million has been invested in rural communities across Scotland since 2021, with over 1,000 projects benefiting.

Speakers at the event included:

• Rab Campbell and Maddie Kortenaar from Social Value Engine Ltd, who discussed the social return on investment of CLLD funds, which was calculated at £4.86 for every £1 in 2022/23, rising to £7.32 in 2023/24.
• Robert Gillies from Harlawhill Day Centre, who shared how funding was used to refurbish the centre's facilities and minibus.
• Cheryl Brown MBE CF and Gemma Laidlaw from Midlothian Sure Start, who detailed their use of funding for IT equipment, outdoor play enhancements, and the development of a high-quality baby room.
• Trudi Cueto from Carfrae Farm, who explained how funding supported the purchase of a milk vending machine, reusable bottles, and improvements to farm signage and hot food takeaway equipment.

The event showcased the many positive outcomes of the Tyne and Esk CLLD programme, demonstrating the power of community-led development in rural areas.