Empowering Communities
The Highlands & Islands Climate Festival belongs to the communities of the Highlands & Islands, without their incredibly hard work there would be nothing to celebrate! All too often the Highlands & Islands are recognised for only their natural resources & landscapes, but the Festival goes beyond this and shines a spotlight on the vibrant communities who live & work here.
Having the theme of localism means the Festival connects people to place, and creates opportunity for sustainable community development. It’s no secret that our climate is changing, and the Festival ensures that the necessary transition to a climate ready Highlands brings prosperity & benefit to the people who live here by tackling other social injustices.
This year we’ve been encouraging communities to get involved with the Festival by hosting events that utilise their local produces & brings communities together. So how does the Festival empower communities?
Financial support to get involved
Our financial contributions to community groups are grants to host an event during September. This year we offered 2 grant opportunities - a small, set funding pot and a bespoke, larger pot. We hoped that by offering these 2 options community groups would be able to get involved - and they did!
We had really strong & exciting applications to both of our pots! We’ve been able to support over 40 community events that will be taking place during September. Each of these has a particular focus on their local assets, and keeps sustainability in mind.
Collaborative Events
We firmly believe in the importance of collaboration and bringing organisations from all across the community sector together. So we’ve been part of organising 2 very exciting events taking place in Caithness & Lochaber! Join us for -
Lochaber Climate Action Fair - Sunday 1st September
Thurso Green Fair - Saturday 28th September
These events will feature workshops, talks & stalls showcasing groups taking climate action in both Lochaber & Caithness. Come along for a day of green networking & advice! Find out more about each on the Events Map.
Scottish Government Climate Week
This year, the Scottish Government’s Climate Week runs from 23rd to 29th September, and will focus on ‘Stories for Change’. The Festival will showcasing the stories of community groups, and how their work is not only good for the planet, but people too.
Tips for Sharing your Story:
Share the benefits
Share pictures
Share tips
Discover Stories for Change here and how you can get involved here.
Events Map
The Highlands & Islands Climate Festival is creating a momentum for change - get involved now!