The Scottish Government has contracted LWTT to develop learning materials that will be based on “Better Community Engagement: A Framework for Learning” 2007 (which sets out a framework of competences designed to enable the planning of learning in community engagement).  We will also test models for delivering effective learning for community engagement.

Basically the project aims are to:

• Establish one or more working models of effective learning for community engagement across Scotland
• Evidence how structured learning could impact or improve community engagement practice
• Provide an evidence base for future development or learning for community engagement

The model for delivery of this project is a national development programme which will operate through a small number of local demonstration projects.  There will be distinctive, but closely linked, national and local roles in developing and delivering learning materials and programmes.

At a local level, to better enable strategic development of the local demonstration project, it is expected that there will be input from local stakeholder organisations such as, the Community Planning Partnership, Community Health Partnership or Community Learning and Development Partnership.  It is expected that such partnerships would have a sponsorship role, to support development of the local demonstration project.  This would facilitate shared ownership of the project aims.

To support national level involvement in the project, an Advisory Group will be established, with representation from relevant stakeholders.  The Advisory Group will provide advice and support to the strategic development of the project.

The project will involve:

• Development of training programmes and materials
• Working with local stakeholder organisations to plan, develop and oversee the local demonstration projects
• Supporting the delivery of learning, working with local learning providers
• Establishing a range of delivery models across the local demonstration projects
• Evaluating the progress and impact of all aspects of the project
• Disseminating learning and conclusions by a range of appropriate methods to stakeholders across Scotland in order to inform and stimulate learning, leading to improved practice in community engagement.

For more information please contact:

Wendy-Louise Smith
Community Engagement
Regeneration Division
Highlander House
58 Waterloo Street
Glasgow
G2 7DA

Tel: 0141 305 4186
E-mail: WendyLouise.Smith@scotland.gsi.gov.uk