As well as being useful sources of information and support, local support structures often have small grant schemes.

What they do and where to find them

• • Third sector interfaces: each local council in Scotland has a ‘third sector interface’ to support, promote, develop and represent the community groups; voluntary organisations and social enterprises; they are a good place to find out about other community food initiatives in your area – find your local interface here
  • Community planning partnerships (CPPs): bring together public agencies to work together with the community to plan and deliver better services locally; getting in touch with your local CPP is a good way to find out more about future plans for your area and how your work fits – find your local CPP here
  • Health and Social Care Partnerships: local partnerships have information on health improvement targets for the local area and can signpost you to support available for health related work. Regional health boards should have further information.
  • Community councils: mostly get involved in local planning decisions but also take on wider aspects of regeneration. Some areas have community councils and some don’t – your council’s website will have community council contact details
  • Housing associations: local housing providers work with local people. Some housing associations employ a regeneration or a community support officer – the Scottish Housing Regulator holds a directory of social landlords.
  • Development trusts: some areas have set up trusts to deal with large-scale community-led improvement projects – contact Development Trusts Association Scotland to find out if there is a trust in your area