Cabinet approves North Ayrshire community learning plan

Communities first plan approved as North Ayrshire reports progress on learning and development

A council plan aimed at strengthening communities through adult learning, youth work and capacity building has been approved, with North Ayrshire Council reporting progress on key outcomes across the area.

The Strategic Community Learning and Development (CLD) Plan Annual Report for 2024-25 was presented to Cabinet, outlining progress under the current three-year plan covering 2024 to 2027. The plan focuses on health and wellbeing, Community Wealth Building and workforce development, while also targeting inequalities and directing resources to help close gaps between need and delivery.

The council said the plan has been shaped by the views of people living in communities, with partners including schools, colleges and third sector organisations involved alongside volunteers and staff.

Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet member for Communities, Housing and Islands, said: “Some of the highlights of this report include 2,164 children and young people reporting improved mental health and wellbeing outcomes from engaging in resilience, wellbeing and suicide prevention programmes while 277 adults achieved nationally-recognised qualifications and 522 gained wider achievement awards.

“Our Fairer Food Network of community shops and larders has expanded to 17 outlets, which have provided the equivalent of 25,000 grocery shops and saved local families in the region of £195,000.

“And 33 community organisations have been supported through the process by our CLD staff through workshops and guidance.”

Local authorities are required by the Scottish Parliament to develop a CLD plan every three years, setting out how communities will be supported through learning opportunities for adults and families, personal development and active citizenship.

North Ayrshire Council said progress has been reported in areas including participatory budgeting, community asset transfers and local decision-making forums, alongside increased outreach in under-served areas and strengthened relationships with third sector organisations and education partners. The council also said the CLD service has helped partners secure additional funding for a range of projects.

Councillor Hill added: “It is vital that we make sure everyone – especially those who are vulnerable or marginalised – has access to learning opportunities and nobody is left behind. And I would like to congratulate our CLD staff on the progress they are making.”

Cabinet approved the annual report for 2024-25 on Tuesday 2 December and authorised an action plan covering the following two years.