Those are the things that people across the south of Scotland want to see happening locally.
They emerged as the common views in an engagement exercise carried out by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE).
And they will be used to help shape the organisation’s first action plan, due to be launched in early 2023. It will set out the priorities for the economic and community development agency over the next five years.
Between November 2021 and March 2022 almost 750 people had their say on what they see as the opportunities and challenges for the south’s economy, including businesses, social enterprises, community groups and members of the public.
In addition, SOSE spoke with over 100 people from seldom heard groups, such as young people with additional support needs and armed forces veterans.
Other feedback included:
* the need to improve small business premises in rural areas
* establish equality champions
* work closely with partners and communities
* simplify, better promote and more effectively signpost support
* realise the big economic opportunities facing the South of Scotland
In response, SOSE have identified actions they will take, in many instances in collaboration with partners, including advocating for better infrastructure, connecting communities and interests, raising ambitions, strengthening the youth voice, driving up standards of inclusion and raising their own profile.
Their engagement summary was presented to the Scottish Parliament last month and has been described by SOSE chairman Professor Russel Griggs as a ‘really important piece of work’.
He said: “One of SOSE’s main tasks since its formation has been to listen, and we will continue to do so in the coming year and beyond.
“I must thank everyone who took the time to have their say, with their views certain to be reflected in our action plan when it is launched.”
* To read the summary in full, go to www.southofscotlandenterprise.com/resources/sose-docs-resources
