Community Pop-Ins
Purpose of Engagement
In response to the impact the cost of living crisis is having on individuals, families and communities, Shetland Island Council’s (SIC) Community Development Team delivered a series of ‘Community Pop-Ins’ across Shetland during the winters of 2022-2023 and 2023-2024. This was done in partnership with communities, community groups and local partners.
The purpose was to ensure that there were free, warm and welcoming spaces in the community for people to come together and also find out about the range of support and help available and how to access it. Sessions also aimed to normalise and reduce the stigma around asking for, receiving and offering help and support, as well as combatting loneliness and isolation.
What was the desired outcome?
Reducing the pressure on Shetlanders by ensuring services and support are accessed by everyone who needs it to thrive, and ensuring that people feel connected to their communities.
What was already known?
The cost of living had increased greatly from 2022. It was expected that the associated pressures would impact communities more severely than in previous years. Community Workers also knew from experience that events developed in conjunction with communities, have a greater chance of success. They also knew that informal conversations with community members are a good way to make connections and informally offer or signpost to support that may be needed.