Agenda and minutes

The Chair welcomed everyone and outlined the procedure for the meeting.

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of:-

Morevain Martin, Garelochhead Station Trust;

Councillor Mark Irvine;

Mary McGinley, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank;

Jayne Burnett, Visiting Friends;

Councillor Gemma Penfold;

Alasdair MacCuish, Helensburgh Gaelic Group;

Janice Kennedy, Scottish Enterprise;

PC Andrew Barron, Police Scotland;

Neil MacFarlane, Transport Scotland; and

Duncan MacLachlan, Arrochar & Tarbet Community Development Trust, Friends of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs and Argyll & the Isles Coast & Countryside Trust

There were no declarations of interest intimated. 

The minutes of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group meeting held on Tuesday 23 August 2022 were approved as a correct record. 

The Group Considered a report from Shona Barton, Governance Manager relating to the results of the Meeting Survey carried out following the August meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group (H&L ACPG). The report highlighted that 33 people responded to the survey and feedback showed the majority of respondents would like the option for either face to face or Hybrid meetings. It was also highlighted that respondents were happy to continue with daytime meetings with the majority in favour of morning meetings and that a majority of respondents indicated that they would like to be offered the opportunity to return to meetings taking place in other venues around the area – but with the option to have Hybrid arrangements in place. Shona added that this would require any venue to have a reliable and robust broadband connection.

Discussion took place in regards to the lack of responses from Community Councils from the area and Shona advised that the CPG meetings have been highlighted at the inaugural meetings attended.

The Chair advised the possibility of having an afternoon meeting during the summer months and the group agreed that this would be for the May meeting.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group agreed:

1. to note the results of the survey;

2. that meetings would be held in the mornings in the months of February, August and November with the May meeting being held in the afternoon;

3. that officers would look to identify venues around the area which would facilitate a hybrid approach for meetings; and

4. that a review of the arrangements would be carried out in a year’s time.

The Chair ruled, and the Community Planning Group agreed, to a variation in the order of business to allow Partner attendance. The minute reflects the order in which items were discussed.

Consideration was given to a report which highlighted the ongoing work of the Climate Change Working Group. The report outlined the proposal to produce a strategic Action Plan as a means to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute; the development of governance arrangements and structures to support the Climate Change Project Officer post. Information was also provided on the funding options for the project.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Stan Phillips, Chair of the Climate Change Working Group, submitted)

The Group considered an update by Angela Anderson from Time for Change Argyll and Bute. Angela advised that Time for Change is a group of residents who are campaigning to raise awareness of climate change.

Angela highlighted that as a group they are increasingly concerned with the need to build resilience in all areas and communities in Argyll and Bute. She added that they had received a great response from organisations during the pandemic but advised that with the current economic, energy and climate situation greater partnership working should be encouraged.

Discussion took place regarding warm spaces and Gill highlighted that she has started working with community groups and organisations to make a local timetable for these and advised the group that if anyone else would like to join then she was more than happy for them to get in touch.

It was highlighted that careful thought had to go into naming these warm spaces in order to promote them to the people in need.

Action – Shona to get in contact with the Council Civil Contingencies Manager to see  what support is available in terms of resilience.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Angela Anderson, Time for Change Argyll and Bute, submitted)

The Group considered an update by Angela Anderson of Plastic Free Helensburgh, the update firstly highlighted a thanks to Argyll and Bute Council for arranging Climate change training for all Councillors and a thanks to Scottish Water for their plans to have a top up tap at the start of the John Muir Way. The update also provided information on the Cardross Warm Homes Event; the single- use plastic ban; beach Clearing and Marine Debris and the Anchor Group status being given.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Angela Anderson, Plastic Free Helensburgh, submitted)

The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ2 review of local performance across Helensburgh and Lomond for the period 2022-23.  The report included information around incidents during this period, recent community engagement activity, road and water safety campaigns, home fire safety and the local firefighter training plan. 

David highlighted that they are currently looking for instructors for the SFRS Youth Volunteer Scheme.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update which included information on the ongoing work of the Service and provided information on staff resourcing; the relaunch of the Youth Volunteer (PSYV) programme; the newly established Community Policing Team; the ‘Don’t be that guy’ campaign and the launch of the Dementia Safeguarding Tag.

PC Evans highlighted that Argyll and Bute will be the first area in Scotland to use the Dementia Safeguarding Tag and added that this will bring positive resilience to people.

Sarah highlighted the ‘Don’t be that guy’ campaign and asked if more information could be provided at a future meeting.

Discussion took place in regards to Youth Volunteers and Fiona advised that any youth volunteers or community groups are welcome at Friends of Hermitage Park.

Action – ‘Don’t be that Guy’ to be added as a possible item for a future meeting.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Police Scotland, dated November 2022, submitted)

The Group considered a public health update. Samantha Campbell from HSCP was in attendance to speak to the update. She highlighted the Public Health Team Annual Report for 2021-2022 and the Living Well Mid-Strategy Report for 2019 – 2021.

Samantha encouraged partners to go onto the website and look at the full reports.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, submitted)

The Group considered an update from Sarah Davies, Helensburgh Community Council, which provided an overview of the Community Council’s activities. It was highlighted that all 20 positons for Community Councillors were filled with the inaugural meeting held on Thursday 27 October 2022. The update also included information on the completion of the new leisure centre and the difference of opinions for use of the old swimming pool site. It also gave information on Vision for Helensburgh; the litter bin survey conducted; the refurbishment and replanting of the Memorial Garden in Hermitage Park; the saga of the Helensburgh to Dumbarton cycleway and the positive development of a future role for the town pier. It was added that they will continue the maintenance of the shrub beds in the square and the monthly beach cleans, in conjunction with Plastic Free Helensburgh.

It was also highlighted that the group had collected more than 100kg of rubbish on a litter pick which covered a large area and has now applied for a grant of £250 from the Grab Trust which will cover the payment for the next skip.

 Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Sarah Davies, Helensburgh Community Council, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update from Sarah Davies, Fun First. The update highlighted that they continue to run six Funtime and one fitness session weekly for parents and children under five and monthly Fun First Friend Sessions which are held at Drumfork Community Centre. The update also included information on new committee member volunteers from the community; a Halloween party which was organised; Christmas party planned for the 15^th December and being chosen for the Co-op Community Fund for next year.

It was also encouraged for local families with young children to join in their activities and was highlighted that they are run on a pay what you can basis and are open to all in the area. It was also noted that they are looking to support Helensburgh and Lomond Home Start befriending service and an early literacy programme being initiated by the Community Hub.

Discussion took place in regards to the successful recruitment of volunteers with it being highlighted that most community groups are struggling with the lack of new volunteers. It was highlighted that word of mouth and social media was how Fun First recruited. Fiona Baker added that she had previously got Councillor Fiona Howard to put an appeal out in the newspaper and had recruited new trustees for the Friends of Hermitage Park and suggested this could be a good idea for any future recruitment.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Sarah Davies, Fun First, submitted)

The Group considered an update from Katrina Sayer of Jean’s Bothy. The update included information on IncludED the Stageplay which they have received positive feedback from; the Art Exhibition in Helensburgh library from the Art Group; the delivery of a Pain Management Workshop; the recently completed 4 week Comic Workshop; the new Arts & Wellbeing Craft Workshops; the ‘New members Meet’ which is held on the last Wednesday of the month; a Social Work student on a work placement with them for 6-8 weeks and the Mindfulness Sessions which start in December.

The update also included information on the current membership numbers, the Bike Shed which is being built with the recently donated funding by Helensburgh Lions Club, being chosen for the Co-op local causes fundraiser, the recent annual cycling fundraiser around Isle of Cumbrae which raised £710 to be used to help support future activities at Jean’s Bothy and the Photography Group who are currently producing a Bothy Calendar 2023.

Gill highlighted that she had attended the stage play and commended the group for the impressive piece of work.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Katrina Sayer, Jean’s Bothy, submitted)

The Group considered an update from Fiona Baker, Destination Helensburgh. The update included information on the increase in visitor numbers in the Visitor Information Centre; their gift shop Highlandman’s Road which is proving to be popular with all; the continued promoting of Helensburgh and Lomond through various media channels; the launch of the “Discover Helensburgh” walking trails app; the increased membership of the organisation and social media following and website visitors.

It was highlighted that the “Gateway to Argyll” visitor map should be ready for launch next Spring.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided

(Reference: Report by Fiona Baker, Destination Helensburgh, dated 24 October 2022, submitted)

The Group considered an update from Rhona Grant, Live Argyll - Community Learning Service, which provided information relating to adult learning Helensburgh which continue to provide support with a weekly drop in hub every Wednesday; digital drop in support at Drumfork Community Centre; digital boost; Get I.T started; Jean’s Bothy digital drop in which is run fortnightly; Online Safety SDS and the Welcome in Digital Drop in.

The update also included information on Youth Services in Helensburgh which highlighted the H&L Youth Action Group; a newbies residential held at Ardroy Outdoor Centre to help with the transition from primary to secondary school; the new pilot ‘Escape2Learn’ which is running out of the Hermitage Academy and the success of their MSYP Chloe who recently took part in a sitting in Edinburgh.

Rhona advised that the Youth services team leader Brian Smith is no longer in post and the position is advertised and they are hoping to have the vacancy filled early in the new year.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Rhona Grant, Team Leader – Community Learning Services, Live Argyll, submitted)

The group gave consideration to an update by Paula Darbyshire of Argyll and Bute TSI which included information on year 2 funding for the Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund; The Cost-of-Living Crisis; the paper presented at the September Community Planning Partnership (CPP) on moving the local Community Wealth Building agenda forward; Argyll and Bute Community Directory; The Argyll and Bute Volunteer Conference which has been announced for 9th December 2022; The offering of Inveraray Hub as a space for community groups to meet instead of heating their own space and the TSI CEO accepting an invitation to Chair Argyll and Bute’s Corporate Parenting Board.

Paula highlighted that the deadline for the Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund is the 21^st November at 10am and added that if partners would like any further information, to get in contact.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Argyll TSI, submitted)

Community Development, Argyll and Bute Council

Kirsty Moyes provided a short update in relation to supportive consultations which are being undertaken on behalf of the CPP asking people what the top 3 priorities are for Argyll and Bute which will help to inform the production of the updated Outcome Improvement Plan.

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT)

Alan Comrie provided a verbal update which included information on the supported bus services which have not returned to normal after covid and added that this situation is likely to remain with limited budget to support these services. Alan also added that the Kilcreggan and Gourock/Cowal pier and ferry developments are still ongoing and rail service issues are ongoing due to industrial action.

Discussion took place in regards to the free bus travel for up to 22 year olds. It was highlighted that the up take was quite poor for the Helensburgh and Lomond area with Alan advising that Transport Scotland have provided the information and suggested Argyll and Bute Council would be the best people to talk to regarding this.

Action – Shona to liaise with Education to see how the free bus travel scheme is being taken forward in Argyll and Bute.

Transport Scotland

In the absence of Neil MacFarlane the Governance Manager provided the following update which was submitted before the meeting:-

We have just completed 3 resurfacing projects on the A82 between Tarbet and Inveranan. In the same area we are installing bollards on the verge at three locations to assist the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority with their Water Safety initiative.

Bollards are to be installed on the road verge at Sloy Power Station to dissuade verge parking when the Inveruglas Visitor Centre gets full.

The Group considered an update from Jen Broadhurst, Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). The update highlighted that they currently have a waiting list of approximately 7 weeks for non-urgent enquiries, however added that they are seeing urgent cases within one week in most cases. Information was also provided on the Volunteer Adviser training Programme which recommenced in September, with now 5 new volunteers who are in training; the securing of additional funds to support enquiries relating to energy, energy debt and income maximization and the upcoming AGM, which is scheduled to take place on the 9 December 2022.

Jen highlighted the successful relocation of the service to the Helensburgh Community Hub.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau, submitted)

The Group gave consideration to an update from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) providing statistical information on the number of customers claiming universal credit and legacy benefits; job seekers allowance; employment and support allowance; and income support.

The report also covered information on a mini recruitment event held by Helensburgh Job centre; the new telephone shared line number with New Style Employment & Support Allowance; managed moves to Universal Credit; second Cost of Living Payment and toolkit; help for households; winter fuel payment video; Disability Cost of Living Payment stakeholder toolkit; Government plans to help cut energy bills; fuel direct; the raised Administrative Earnings Threshold; the Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in replacement for Personal Independence Payment (PIP); broadband social tariff; health adjustment passports and the influx of Pension Credit claims.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Employer & Partnership Manager, Department for Work and Pensions, dated 31 October 2022 submitted)

Report presented by Robert Beauchamp, Centre for Economics and Business Research

The Group considered a presentation by Robert Beachaump. It was highlighted that the Phase 2 report was an quantitative analysis of the impacts of CalMac as a company (employment, Gross Value Added, turnover, and employee compensation supported directly and through the supply chain) and of impacts of service levels on island communities (ferry users’ welfare, economic activity, employment, population), based on Phase 1 findings, desk research, analysis, fieldwork, and socio-economic modelling.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Senior Economist Centre for Economics and Business Research, submitted)

Consideration was given to a written update from Mary McGinley, Chairperson, Helensburgh & Lomond Foodbank. The update highlighted that it is an Independent Community Foodbank run entirely by unpaid volunteers and all the food we share with those in need is generously donated by the local Community or purchased from cash donations.

The update also highlighted the amount of food bags issued and the amount of adults and children supported between 01/07/21 to 30/09/21 and from 01/07/22 to 30/09/22 which reveals an increase of 37.3% in food bags issued and an increase of 67.6% in numbers supported as more families are requiring the support. It was added that the increase shows the adverse impact that the rise in the cost of living is having on the local community, particularly those with children.

It was highlighted that If the demand continues to rise, as is anticipated, there is a concern that this charitable food aid response will become unsustainable.

The Group all agreed that more needs to be done by the Government and it was discussed that the group should ask Mary how the group and community groups can support the foodbank.

Decision

1. considered and noted the information provided; and

2. noted that in the absence of a representative from Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank, any questions would be forwarded to them for a response following the meeting.

Action – contact to be made with the Foodbank to ascertain what more can be done to support them.

(Reference: Report by Mary McGinley, Chairperson, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank, submitted)

Update by Gill Simpson, Development Manager, Helensburgh Community Hub

Consideration was given to an update from Gill Simpson, Helensburgh Community Hub, which provided an overview of the Community Hub’s activities. Gill advised that they are currently promoting reading for pleasure with two major collaborations developed , the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and the spring book event in collaboration between the Hub, Jean’s Bothy and H&L Carers. The update also included information on the ongoing support for volunteers and groups across H&L; ways they can welcome people in over the winter months and community engagement.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Gill Simpson, Helensburgh Community Hub, submitted)

Presentation by Norman McNally

The Group gave consideration to a presentation from Norman McNally, Helensburgh Community Council on Vision for Helensburgh. Norman highlighted that In late 2017 Helensburgh Community Council created a working group called Vision for Helensburgh and tasked it with gathering community and visitor information on how residents and visitors see Helensburgh- and how they would like to see it flourish. He highlighted that they had received over 2000 feedback comments.

Norman advised that the project was put on hold due to the Pandemic but a re-evaluation workshop was held in Autumn 2021 in the Victoria Halls, Helensburgh.  Following the workshop, four ‘burning’ topics were identified – A total Kidston to Craigendoran Waterfront Strategy; Environment; Amenities for youth, young families and visitors, and Local Connectivity/mobility.  These will now be taken forward by the Group.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Presentation by Norman McNally, Helensburgh Community Council, submitted)

Presentation by Rachel McNicol, Deputy Manager, ALIenergy

An update was considered by the group from Rachel McNicol from ALIenergy on the affordable warmth services provided. The update included information on what they are working on including Affordable Warmth, Education, and Local Energy Projects. The update also included information on fuel poverty around Scotland with remote rural areas far worse with 43% of households in fuel poverty and 33% in extreme fuel poverty.

It was highlighted that ALIenergy have received a lot of queries about the Energy Bills Support Scheme and Rachel advised that the £400 discount on electrical bills will be paid differently depending on what meter you have and how often you pay.

Rachel advised that ALIenergy can access a number of main interventions for clients experiencing energy cost crisis such as the Fuel Bank Foundation; Heat Fund; Scottish Government Home Heating Support Fund and the Glasspool Trust.

Some events attended by representatives of ALIenergy were highlighted and Rachel added that ALIenergy are happy to attend any events and provide a presentation on the work they do.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Rachel McNicol, Deputy Manager, ALIenergy)

Report by Governance Manager

Consideration was given to a briefing note which provided information on matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee, held on 6 October 2022.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the briefing note.

(Reference: Report by Shona Barton, Governance Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 8 November 2022, submitted)

The next meeting of the Group will take place on Tuesday 14 February 2023

The Chair thanked everyone in attendance at the meeting, and thanked all partners for their continued proactive work in the community.

The Group noted that the next meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group would take place on Tuesday, 14 February 2023 at 10am.