Evidence library

What were we trying to find out? In this review we considered how community wealth building (CWB) can be applied in a rural and island context. The Scottish Government has made a strong commitment to explore the potential for CWB to deliver inclusive growth, including through the National Strategy for Economic Transformation, planning reform and commitments relating to land reform.

Recommendations:

On the basis of our evidence review, we suggest a set of possible learning points in relation to each of the five principles:

1. Progressive procurement: Considering the introduction of a geographical
   element to procurement to ensure processes are applicable to rural and island
   locations and businesses.
2. Fair employment and just labour markets: Ensuring employability support
   schemes and fair work practices can be delivered in rural/island communities
   and with rural/island businesses to the same standard as in urban areas, and
   considering the rural/island potential for employment and enterprise hubs.
3. Shared ownership of the local economy: Recognising the large number of
   social enterprises in rural/island locations and the potential for stronger links
   with anchor institutions.
4. Socially just use of land and property: Reviewing the potential for more
   partnership working around the management of land and natural capital and
   better alignment with CWB principles, and considering the role of community
   land trusts as anchor organisations.
5. Making financial power work for local places: Linking community ownership
   models, community benefit funds, etc. more strongly with the principles for
   harnessing and recirculating wealth in local communities and providing
   ongoing support.