We are absolutely delighted to share that our Community Fun Run held on Saturday 23rd May 2026 raised an amazing £1,530.00 for MND Scotland through our raffle and donations – thank you so much to everyone who contributed!

Your generosity truly means the world, and we are so grateful for the incredible support shown towards such an important cause.

We are also completely overwhelmed to say that over the past three years, through our fun runs, we have now raised a fantastic £5,266.00 for some truly special and deserving causes:

🏃‍♀️ 2024 – Maggie’s Highland

🏃‍♂️ 2025 – Gamekeepers Welfare Trust

🏃‍♀️ 2026 – MND Scotland 

This is an amazing achievement, and it simply wouldn’t have been possible without each and every one of you who has taken part, donated, sponsored, or supported us along the way 💛

📢 A quick note: There was a technical error with the running times displayed on the system, but this has now been resolved – thank you for your patience and understanding.

📅 Save the date! Our next fun run will take place on

Saturday 22nd May 2027 – we hope to see you all there!

Thanks 

Tracy Campbell 

[received by SCC from Bear Scotland]

Dear Sir/Madam,

BEAR SCOTLAND Our Ref: 26-NW-0319-44 Date: 25/05/2026

TERM CONTRACT FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF THE SCOTTISH TRUNK ROAD NETWORK – NORTH-WEST UNIT

A9 TOMATIN, NIGHT-TIME RESURFACING WORKS LANE CLOSURE WITH CONVOY INFORMATION LETTER

BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, will be undertaking essential carriageway resurfacing works on the A9 at Tomatin & A9 at Moy.

Please find enclosed a location plan, which details the works extents.

Due to the nature of the works, it will be necessary to implement two-way temporary traffic lights and convoy to ensure the safety of our workforce and members of the public, which is of paramount importance. The works will commence on the evening of Monday the 8th of June and end on the morning of Thursday the 11th of June for a total of 3 nights. The works will be carried out between the hours of 8pm and 6am each night.

The convoy will be removed out-with working times, however a 30mph speed limit and warning signs will remain in place, as traffic will be travelling over a temporary road surface.

Access through the works site for emergency services will be always maintained.

BEAR Scotland and Transport Scotland wish to thank the local community in advance for their patience during these essential works.

Should you wish to make comment or require further information, please contact David Bert via email at NWConsultation@bearscotland.co.uk.

Yours faithfully,

David Bert Assistant Planned Maintenance Manager (North) For and on behalf of BEAR Scotland

 This beautiful blossom comes from our heritage varieties: Tom Putt and Ellison’s Orange. Tom Putt is a wonderfully versatile apple – great for eating as a dessert apple and ideal for cider-making too, as well as being a reliable cropper. Ellison’s Orange is another dependable dessert variety, producing apples with yellowish-green skin flushed with red, developing a distinctive aniseed flavour in storage.

Pupils from Strathdearn Primary school helped with the planting and we’re all looking forward to eating the fruits of their labours!

It’s well worth a wee wander through our newly planted Fruit and Nut area over the next few weeks, as the blossom continues across the other tree varieties.

In the woodland just now, you’ll notice

lovely pockets of wildflowers coming through – wood sorrel, violets and wood anemone brightening the ground beneath the trees. These early blooms play an important role in supporting nature, providing an early vital source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators emerging after winter. 

It will be interesting to see how our newly planted wildflower beds do over the next few months, and it will be lovely to increase the variety with native wildflower and mixed grasses that we’ve added. It’s a small but important reminder of how much life is supported by letting these natural spaces thrive.

Strathdearn Community Council is pleased to announce the launch of its 31-day consultation period for the Proposed Strathdearn Local Place Plan.

The Local Place Plan will guide community action relating to services, facilities, and the development and/or use of land and buildings in Strathdearn over the next five-years. It is important that as many members of the community as possible tell us if they agree with key parts of the Proposed Plan. And if not, to explain why, so we can make necessary changes before submitting it to the Council.

Our Proposed Plan

You can read the Proposed Plan at our Local Place Plan webpage: https://strathdearn.org/local-place-plan/

There is a colour-coded ‘Guide to contents’ at the start of the Proposed Plan to help guide readers to key parts of the Proposed Plan.

How to comment

Our online feedback form asks if you agree with four key parts of the Proposed Plan:

• Our proposed VISION FOR THE FUTURE 
• Our proposed COMMUNITY ACTIONS 
• Our proposed PROPOSALS
• Our proposed list of LAND AND BUILDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE to our local area

Plus, there is an opportunity for you to give us any other comments you have about the Proposed Plan.

You can see printed information and pick up a paper copy of the feedback form at our Local Place Plan display from this evening, 12 May, at The Strathdearn.

Helen Bailey will be at the hall from 6.30pm on 12 May to answer any questions and receive feedback in person, before the Community Council meeting. Helen will also be at the hall to take feedback in person between 1-2pm on Thursday 14 May.  

Respond by paper form to The Strathdearn by 4pm on 12/06/2026 or online by 23:59 on 12/06/2026.

We look forward to receiving your response!

A gentle reminder to everyone enjoying Hazelbank Community Wood 🌳

We are very lucky to have so many people using and enjoying our community woodland — from walkers and families to local groups and the school’s outdoor learning sessions. Children have been heavily involved in planting, learning about nature, and helping to care for the wood, which has been wonderful to see.

Unfortunately, dog mess within the wood has become an increasing issue. While many responsible owners do clear up after their dogs, too many bags, or mess itself are still being left behind. With so many different users sharing the space, including nursery and school groups, we kindly ask everyone to help keep Hazelbank Wood clean and safe for all.

Dog waste bins We have explored options such as installing dog waste bins, but these carry ongoing costs and only work if used properly. There are already bins located close to the woodland entrances:

· Two bins near the Old Mill Road entrance

· One bin near Ard Park

· Additional bins by the Hub

Wildlife reminder : At this time of year, Hazelbank Wood is home to ground‑nesting birds. Please keep dogs under close control, and on leads where appropriate, to help protect wildlife and other woodland users.

Sharing the space kindly A little courtesy goes a long way when approaching other walkers, families, or education groups. The school uses pop‑out signs on either side of their learning area to give dog owners time to put dogs on leads or choose an alternative route. The wood is currently used by the school on Tuesday afternoons and Fridays, as well as on an ad‑hoc basis.

We would love everyone to continue following the Countryside Code within Hazelbank Wood:

🌱 Respect others 🌱 Protect wildlife 🌱 Leave no trace where possible

Thank you to everyone helping care for this wonderful shared space.

[from Louise Ramsay]

Some of you may have noticed sheep’s wool tied around some of our recently planted tree saplings in Hazelbank Wood.

We’re currently testing a few different ideas to help deter deer from browsing on them, this is part of one of our trials. The method behind it is deer tend to dislike both the smell and taste of the fleece.

We have also been using sheep dags as a mulch around our newly planted heritage apple trees, this helps suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil.

It’s a simple, natural, and environmentally friendly method, and we’re keen to see how effective it is over time. We’ll keep you updated on the results!

Following their recent visit to last month’s community council meeting, where they outlined revisions to the Balnespick Wind Farm proposal, representatives from the project team have announced a public drop-in event at The Strathdearn on 11 May. Local residents will have the opportunity to learn more about the updated plans and ask questions.

The revised plans include fewer and lower turbines, reflecting feedback from the earlier consultation.

• Reduction in turbine numbers from 9 to 7
• Reduction in tip height from 200m to 180m
• Reduction in generating capacity from 64.8MW to 50.4MW
• Visual impact minimised due to repositioning of remaining turbines
• Reduced impact on peat

Strathdearn Community Council, Tuesday 12^th May @ 7.00pm in The Strathdearn

This meeting will also be available on MS Teams
Meeting ID: 331 494 608 625 553
Passcode: CJ2RR3hE
Join the meeting HERE

(NB: Meeting will be recorded to ensure the minutes are true and accurate)

1. Apologies
2. Declarations of interest
3. Balfour Beatty
4. Minutes of the last meeting (View them here)
5. Financial report
6. Law and Order
7. Road Safety
8. Applications to the SCCT
   • The Tomatin Children’s Entertainment Committee- Farm Ness
   • The Tomatin Children’s Entertainment Committee- Loch Insh
   • Highland Field Sports Fair Ltd T/A Moy Country Fair
9. Planning Matters

1. Local Place Plan
2. Windfarms – Update from SWIAG

10. Update from SCD
11. Correspondence
12. AOCB

Date of next meeting Tuesday 9^th June 2026

[This fortnightly briefing from Highland Council brings together a wide range of updates, opportunities, and useful information for community groups, organisations, and residents. Strathdearn Community Website has converted it into a more readable format. The original document can be accessed from HERE]

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Dear Colleagues and Partners,

Welcome to the fortnightly Community Briefing delivered in collaboration with the Highland Community Planning Partnership and Highland Council, containing information about funding, training, support, resources, and news for Highland wide and local communities.

If you have anything you want included in a future Briefing, please email: policy6@highland.gov.uk

To join the mailing list complete this short form:
https://forms.office.com/e/rSS3hXbGTa

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FUNDING

Tesco Stronger Starts

Tesco Stronger Starts funds thousands of local community projects across Scotland and the UK.

Eligible Tesco stores in Thurso, Wick, Ullapool and Tain.

Applications welcome from groups and projects that support children and young people with a stronger start in life.

A wide range of projects fit the bill, including:

• Improving school playgrounds
• Biodiversity projects
• Growing and food projects
• Outdoor play and adventure
• Community arts projects
• Purchasing kit for healthy activities

Projects that include a food element (for example healthy snacks or lunches) are currently being prioritised.

The scheme provides grants of up to £1,500.

Find out more: https://tescostrongerstarts.org.uk

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National Lottery – Glasgow 2026 Activities

The National Lottery is investing an extra £2.2 million to help communities across Scotland deliver Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games-inspired activities.

Through Awards for All Scotland, groups can apply for up to £10,000 to:

• Boost participation in arts and sport
• Strengthen communities
• Support wellbeing
• Celebrate diversity
• Create a lasting local legacy

Find out more: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

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Highland Local Action Group Funding Opportunity

An opportunity for rural communities to apply for funding to support their projects is now open.

The Highland Local Action Group (LAG) is inviting organisations to apply for grants up to £10,000.

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National Lottery Awards for All Scotland

The National Lottery funds projects that bring people together and help communities across Scotland thrive.

Social connections and community activities are at the heart of healthier, happier lives.

More information: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/national-lottery-awards-for-all-scotland

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National Lottery Community Fund (Scotland) – Strengthening Organisations

This funding is for organisations in Scotland currently funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.

It supports organisations to:

• Try new ideas
• Develop their organisation
• Improve their current work

Deadline: Ongoing

More information: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

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Highland Youth Local Action Group – Youth Impact Fund

The Highland Youth Local Action Group has launched the Youth Impact Fund, supported by Community-Led Local Development funding through Highland Council and facilitated by the Highlands and Islands Climate Hub.

The fund empowers young people aged 16–30 to design and deliver projects that strengthen:

• Connection
• Fulfilment
• Development
• Positive change across Highland

From 1 April to 15 May 2026:

• Young individuals can apply for up to £500
• Community organisations can apply for up to £2,000

(Excluding Inverness City and Badenoch & Strathspey)

More information: https://www.hiclimatehub.co.uk

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Service Pupil Support Programme

The Service Pupil Support programme sits within MOD’s dedicated Armed Forces Families Fund.

The MOD has partnered with the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust to administer the AF3 Fund.

Under this programme, grants will support service children along their educational pathway.

Closing date: 30 September 2026

More information: https://covenantfund.org.uk

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Reuse & Repair Fund

Round 2 of The Highland Council’s Reuse and Repair Fund has opened.

Grants of between £2,000 and £50,000 are available to support community-led initiatives helping people:

• Repair items
• Reuse materials
• Upcycle goods

This reduces waste and supports a stronger circular economy.

Applications close at 12 noon on Friday 22 May.

More information: https://www.highland.gov.uk

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Bank of Scotland Foundation – Energise Programme

The Bank of Scotland Foundation will reopen their Energise Programme.

This programme supports charities registered in Scotland that work with vulnerable groups.

Funding available:

• Income below £50,000: up to £20,000
• Income £50,000–£150,000: up to £40,000

Applicants must:

• Operate in Scotland
• Have one year of lodged OSCR accounts
• Have annual income below £150,000
• Work with vulnerable groups

More information: https://bankofscotlandfoundation.org

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Future Routes Fund for Nature 2026

A fund for young people by young people.

The fund aims to help young people:

• Increase knowledge of Scottish biodiversity
• Connect with nature
• Take climate action

Young people are invited to join the judging panel.

Open to ages 11–26 from anywhere in Scotland.

Contact: futureroutesfund@nature.scot

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Warmer Homes Scotland

Need help to make your home warmer?

You could receive support worth £10,000 or more from the Scottish Government.

Eligible improvements may include:

• Heating systems
• Insulation
• Energy-saving home improvements

More information: https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/warmer-homes-scotland

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CARES Funding

CARES funding is now open for applications for the 2026/27 funding year.

CARES supports community energy projects including:

• Community ownership of renewable technologies
• Renewable systems in community buildings
• Community benefits
• Shared ownership opportunities

More information: https://localenergy.scot/funding

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Hydro Community Fund

SSE Renewables has launched a £10 million community fund for communities hosting hydro assets.

Priorities include:

• Protecting the natural environment
• Sustainable transport
• Affordable housing
• Small business growth
• Community assets and infrastructure
• Arts, culture and wellbeing
• Skills and employment opportunities

More information: https://www.sserenewables.com

BeConnected Highland – Put Your Community Project on the Map

The Highland Council is piloting BeConnected, a new digital platform to support community organisations and groups in accessing funding, in-kind support, and opportunities to collaborate across the region.

Traditionally, community funding has been accessed through open calls for projects. While this approach has enabled many successful projects and initiatives, short competitive funding windows can also lead to oversubscription and disappointment for groups unable to secure support.

In response, the Council is evolving its approach so that funding decisions are better aligned with local priorities, particularly those identified within Area Place Plans, and to make support more accessible to groups at all stages of project development.

BeConnected is an interactive online map that allows community groups to highlight priority projects they are working on in their area.

By doing so, it provides funders, including the Community Regeneration Fund, with a clearer picture of grassroots activity across Highland.

Community groups are encouraged to explore the map, familiarise themselves with their Area Place Plan, and add their projects.

More information: https://www.highland.gov.uk

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HTSI CLLD Fund

HTSI plan to open a new CLLD (Community-Led Local Development) Fund.

These funds are open to third sector organisations operating community-led local projects aimed at delivering activities in remote and rural areas of Highland.

Projects should focus on reducing child poverty through the following themes:

• Increase income by supporting parents to gain and sustain employment
• Reduce cost of living and maximise income
• Deliver whole family support to improve outcomes and wellbeing
• Support children and young people to reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty long term

Funding excludes activities in Inverness and Badenoch & Strathspey.

More information: https://www.highlandtsi.org.uk

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The Robertson Trust

The Robertson Trust provides funding to third-sector organisations that help people and communities in Scotland living with poverty and trauma.

Information, resources and FAQs:
https://www.therobertsontrust.org.uk

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Robertson Trust Offer for Small Grant Holders

The Supporting Resilience Fund offers £2,000–£10,000 to Small Grant Holders to invest in work that strengthens their organisation from within.

This funding is for organisational and staff resilience rather than programme delivery.

It may support:

• Leadership, governance and strategic planning
• Financial planning, systems and infrastructure
• Organisational development
• Staff and volunteer wellbeing

More information: https://www.therobertsontrust.org.uk

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SSEN Distribution Community Funding

Almost £350,000 has been awarded to successful applicants in the 2025 round of SSEN Distribution’s Powering Communities to Net Zero Fund.

Projects include:

• Heat pumps and solar panels
• Pavement gritters
• Flood protection equipment
• Community resilience initiatives

The fund reopens annually through Spring 2028.

More information: https://www.ssen.co.uk

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HTSI Funding Bulletin

HTSI produces a monthly Funding Bulletin for members detailing current funding opportunities in Highland.

They also provide workshops for staff and volunteers in the third sector.

More information: https://www.highlandtsi.org.uk

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National Lottery Community Fund

The National Lottery Community Fund has a number of programmes available including:

• Awards for All
• Community Action
• Scottish Land Fund
• Climate Action Fund

More information: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

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S4GI Community Benefit Fund

S4GI partner Cellnex UK has grants of up to £2,000 available to support initiatives focused on:

• Digital projects
• Community wellbeing
• Learning and development

The fund prioritises projects near selected S4GI mobile mast locations.

More information: https://www.cellnexuk.com

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NEWS / RESOURCES

Directories

The Highland Community Planning Partnership website now has a page dedicated to directories.

There you can find links to:

• ALISS
• Highland Directory of Services
• Highland Mental Wellbeing

More information: https://www.highlandcpp.org.uk

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Adult Social Care in Lochaber – Your Insight Matters

Work is underway across Lochaber to build a clearer and more honest picture of how adult social care is experienced and where change is needed.

This work has been commissioned by Highland Council and NHS Highland and is being delivered in partnership with In Control Scotland.

People are invited to share views and lived experience.

More information: https://in-controlscotland.org

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Highlands & Islands Climate Collective

The Highlands and Islands Climate Hub has launched the Highlands and Islands Climate Collective.

A space for young people aged 16–30 in Highland, Orkney and Shetland who are passionate about climate action.

The collective helps young people:

• Act against the climate emergency
• Connect with community groups
• Build skills for sustainable careers

More information: https://www.hiclimatehub.co.uk

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Armed Forces Covenant

Highland Council and NHS Highland support Armed Forces and Veterans communities through the Armed Forces Covenant Duty.

More information: https://www.highland.gov.uk

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CARES Bulletin – April 2026

Read about newly opened funding opportunities helping community groups take the next step on their energy journey.

More information: https://localenergy.scot

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With You Anywhere

Alcohol and drug support for Highland.

Free and confidential services without judgement for people facing challenges with drugs or alcohol.

More information: https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk

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Food for Thought – Food Security in Rural Areas

A report from Skye and Lochalsh Citizens Advice Bureau exploring food insecurity in Skye and Lochalsh.

Topics include:

• Rising food costs
• Transport barriers
• Supply chain fragility
• Limited access to fresh food
• Community resilience solutions

More information: https://www.cas.org.uk

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ILM Highland Rural Recycling Service

ILM Highland visits rural communities once a month at local collection points, helping residents recycle electrical and electronic waste responsibly.

Collection times are usually 11am–1pm.

More information: https://www.ilmhighland.co.uk

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Highland Senior Citizens Network

A useful website with recent news and activities including:

• Social connection opportunities
• Creative sessions
• Veterans advocacy
• Community lunch clubs
• Dementia support
• Fire safety visits
• Energy-saving tips

More information: https://www.hscn.org.uk

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Highland Repair Directory

The Highlands and Islands Climate Hub supports the Highland Repair Directory.

An online resource helping people repair or share items instead of sending them to landfill.

More information: https://www.hiclimatehub.co.uk

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Free Period Products in Highland

Free period products are available in Highland for anyone who needs them.

Available through:

• Community locations
• Home delivery service
• Schools

More information: https://www.highland.gov.uk