Shetland Partnership showcases collaborative approach at national charter launch
A new charter has been launched to strengthen collaboration between Community Planning Partnerships and Scottish Government Place Directors.
Shetland Partnership representatives joined community planning leaders from across Scotland at the launch of a new charter designed to strengthen collaboration between Community Planning Partnerships (CPPs) and Scottish Government Place Directors.
Chair Gary Robinson and Vice-Chair Emma Macdonald attended the launch of the Place Director and Community Planning Partnership Charter in Edinburgh. Shetland was invited to take part in one of three spotlight sessions at the event, alongside Angus and Glasgow, sharing examples of effective partnership working in practice.
The charter sets out a shared commitment between Place Directors and Community Planning Partnerships to build trusted relationships, strengthen communication between local and national government, and support the delivery of Local Outcome Improvement Plans aimed at reducing inequalities across Scotland. Place Directors will provide links to national policy and funding developments, while CPP partners will share local insights and work collaboratively to identify actions needed to improve outcomes in their communities.
Emma Macdonald, Vice-Chair of Shetland Partnership, said the new charter would strengthen existing arrangements in Shetland rather than require significant changes. She noted that discussions throughout the event highlighted the importance of strong relationships, something she believes is already a key strength of Shetland's Community Planning Partnership.
"Many of the people around the table wear different hats, but we're also members of the community and want what's best for our families, friends and neighbours," she said.
The event brought together Community Planning Partnerships from across Scotland to share learning and showcase successful approaches to collaboration between local and national partners. A key message throughout the day was the value of strong relationships in helping partnerships deliver better outcomes for communities.
The launch also comes as Shetland prepares to work with a new Scottish Government Place Director. Nick Ford has recently been appointed to the role, succeeding longstanding Place Director Phil Raines. Nick is Director of Procurement and Property Directorate within the Scottish Government and brings extensive experience in procurement, commercial and project management.
Shetland Partnership looks forward to working with Nick and continuing to strengthen the strong local and national relationships that help deliver positive outcomes for communities across Shetland.