Community development trusts are vital for helping rural communities overcome challenges and seize opportunities, according to a new blog by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). Karina Ross, HIE’s senior development manager for Caithness and Sutherland, reflected on a recent learning event in Lairg that gathered around 20 development trusts.
The event aimed to enhance the capacity of trusts, facilitate experience sharing, and provide access to specialist advice. Attendees discussed critical issues impacting rural areas, including housing, digital technology, artificial intelligence, planning, and funding.
Karina Ross stated that development trusts often lead the way in addressing local issues while supporting communities in achieving their long-term goals. She commented, “When 20 or so community development trusts get together to talk about the challenges and opportunities facing their communities, one thing quickly becomes clear: these organisations are at the heart of rural life. They create jobs, tackle inequalities, provide local services, develop community-led housing, manage community assets and run projects that attract visitors. Rooted in the communities they serve, they understand local priorities and are well placed to turn ideas into action and impact.”
Sessions included a discussion on housing led by Lizi Blackwood, HIE’s area head of business and enterprise, and presentations on digital technology, AI, and community planning. Representatives from The Highland Council, SSE, North Highland Initiative, and Development Trusts Association Scotland also participated in a panel discussion, offering guidance on funding and project development.
Karina Ross noted that the event highlighted the strong desire among development trusts to learn from one another and increase their impact locally. She added, “We really value the ambition, commitment and impact of development trusts across Caithness and Sutherland. They bring local knowledge and determination to some of the most important challenges facing the area. Whether addressing housing shortages, managing assets, supporting local services or creating new economic opportunities, they have a crucial role in helping communities shape their own futures.”
Participant feedback was highly positive, with attendees valuing the networking opportunities, practical advice, and discussions on emerging technologies. HIE plans a third development trust learning event in 2027 and continues to host monthly online networking meetings for trusts in Caithness and Sutherland.
Karina Ross's blog, titled 'What a room full of development trusts reminded us about rural communities', is accessible on the HIE website.
