Client: Mount Stuart Trust
Project: Development of a Community Engagement Plan
Location: Isle of Bute, Scotland
Project Overview
Mount Stuart Trust is a vital custodian of cultural and heritage preservation on the Isle of Bute. Recognising the crucial role of community engagement in sustaining their impact, the Trustees sought a comprehensive Community Engagement Plan to strengthen relationships with local stakeholders and ensure their initiatives reflected the needs and aspirations of the community.
Lucy Laidlaw was engaged to deliver a robust strategy that would foster meaningful dialogue between Mount Stuart Trust and the communities they work alongside.
The Approach
1. Stakeholder Consultation
Our first step involved extensive consultation with key stakeholders, including the Mount Stuart Trust team, local residents, community groups, businesses, and government representatives. We designed and facilitated workshops, conducted interviews, and utilised surveys to gather a broad range of perspectives, ensuring that every voice was valued and represented.
2. Tailored Communication Strategies
We crafted bespoke communication strategies that addressed the unique characteristics of the rural island community. This involved a mix of traditional and digital engagement techniques to ensure inclusivity, such as local events, social media outreach, and written materials accessible to all.
3. Strategic Framework Development
Using insights from the consultation phase, we developed a strategic framework outlining clear objectives, methods of engagement, and evaluation metrics. The plan emphasised sustainability, continuous feedback, and adaptability, positioning the Trust as a responsive and community-driven organisation.
Key Deliverables
Outcomes & Impact
Client Testimonial
“Lucy Laidlaw’s expertise was instrumental in helping us develop a clear, actionable engagement strategy that truly reflects the needs of our community. Her thoughtful approach ensured every stakeholder felt heard and valued, laying the foundation for lasting and meaningful relationships.”
— Fiona Hardie, Community Liaison Officer, Mount Stuart Trust
Ready to elevate your communication strategy?
Get in touch today to see how we can help your organisation engage more effectively with your community.
Project: Development of a Community Engagement Plan
Location: Isle of Bute, Scotland
Project Overview
Mount Stuart Trust is a vital custodian of cultural and heritage preservation on the Isle of Bute. Recognising the crucial role of community engagement in sustaining their impact, the Trustees sought a comprehensive Community Engagement Plan to strengthen relationships with local stakeholders and ensure their initiatives reflected the needs and aspirations of the community.
Lucy Laidlaw was engaged to deliver a robust strategy that would foster meaningful dialogue between Mount Stuart Trust and the communities they work alongside.
The Approach
1. Stakeholder Consultation
Our first step involved extensive consultation with key stakeholders, including the Mount Stuart Trust team, local residents, community groups, businesses, and government representatives. We designed and facilitated workshops, conducted interviews, and utilised surveys to gather a broad range of perspectives, ensuring that every voice was valued and represented.
2. Tailored Communication Strategies
We crafted bespoke communication strategies that addressed the unique characteristics of the rural island community. This involved a mix of traditional and digital engagement techniques to ensure inclusivity, such as local events, social media outreach, and written materials accessible to all.
3. Strategic Framework Development
Using insights from the consultation phase, we developed a strategic framework outlining clear objectives, methods of engagement, and evaluation metrics. The plan emphasised sustainability, continuous feedback, and adaptability, positioning the Trust as a responsive and community-driven organisation.
Key Deliverables
- Comprehensive Community Engagement Plan: A detailed document that mapped out engagement priorities and actionable steps for the next five years.
- Stakeholder Mapping: An analysis of key community stakeholders, detailing communication preferences and opportunities for collaboration.
- Communication Toolkit: Practical resources for Mount Stuart Trust to implement the plan effectively, including templates and messaging guidelines.
- Training: Bespoke training sessions delivered to Mount Stuart Trust staff, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to deliver positive and impactful community engagement.
- Ongoing Support: Continued support provided to Mount Stuart Trust on community issues and communications, ensuring they have expert guidance as new challenges and opportunities arise.
Outcomes & Impact
- Enhanced Community Relationships: Early feedback indicated stronger trust and collaboration between Mount Stuart Trust and local residents, with a shared sense of purpose and partnership.
- Increased Participation: By employing diverse and inclusive engagement methods, the Trust has seen greater involvement in community events and initiatives.
- Sustainable Engagement Practices: The plan established a sustainable approach to ongoing communication, allowing the Trust to remain adaptable and responsive to community needs.
- Political Recognition: Recognition from local MSPs, MPs and organisations such as the Scottish Land Commission for our positive and proactive approach to engaging with the community.
Client Testimonial
“Lucy Laidlaw’s expertise was instrumental in helping us develop a clear, actionable engagement strategy that truly reflects the needs of our community. Her thoughtful approach ensured every stakeholder felt heard and valued, laying the foundation for lasting and meaningful relationships.”
— Fiona Hardie, Community Liaison Officer, Mount Stuart Trust
Ready to elevate your communication strategy?
Get in touch today to see how we can help your organisation engage more effectively with your community.