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A new drive to tackle the deep-rooted social and economic problems faced by South Uist has been launched with a groundbreaking new partnership with a Glasgow community.  

Leading community figures from Govan and South Uist are developing a ‘twinning’ arrangement - supported by Oxfam - to swap ideas and experiences.

Both areas face high levels of unemployment, a shortage of training opportunities, inequality, fuel poverty and a general lack of community power and influence.

Jim Boyle, from Oxfam's Scotland, said: “The problems holding back urban Govan are remarkably similar to those facing rural South Uist. But while the challenges are often common, so too are many of the solutions. Individually, these communities are making real strides forward – we believe sharing their experiences and ideas can fast-track community empowerment and regeneration in both.”

Members of the Lochboisdale Amenity Trust travelled from South Uist – where Oxfam’s work is funded by the Postcode Lottery’s Dream Fund - visited a trio of projects in Govan.

The Trust members will visit Gal Gael – a scheme which uses Govan’s shipbuilding history to rekindle traditional skills and to boost the confidence of socially and economically excluded local people. The South Uist community want to establish their own skills academy.

Tam McGarvey, from Gal Gael, said: “Sadly, many people in Govan feel it has become an island within Glasgow – cut off from prosperity, job opportunities, and, all too often, hope. We know that can change and look forward to learning from the islanders from South Uist.

“We also hope they can learn from us. At Gal Gael we help teach people traditional shipbuilding skills – we believe it’s helping to rebuild this community and to give those who come here a sense of purpose. Our boats serve as a powerful metaphor for transformation.”

The South Uist delegation will also visit T-in-the-Pot - a drop-in centre for women in Govan – and Sunny Govan Radio, a station which has broadcast online since 2002.

15-year-old crofter Megan MacDonald – recently crowned Young Scot 2011 – will be part of the South Uist delegation. She is fighting to preserve crofting for her, and future generations.

Megan MacDonald said: “It’s easy to view the problems faced on South Uist as unique to us but when you speak to people in Govan it’s clear that’s not the case. Too many young people in both areas believe they need to leave to get up in the world – that’s not right. I’m really hoping to learn from Govan – particularly about their radio station. It would be great to give the community on South Uist a stronger voice by developing our own.”

Further areas for potential cooperation include Govan learning from the “portfolio” careers now common on South Uist as well as the island learning how women can have a greater influence in their communities. Another is Govan exploring the potential for an urban fish farm based on South Uist’s expertise.

Dr Alasdair Allan MSP, who also holds the post of minister for learning and skills, said: “The partnership between these two communities is both genuinely ground-breaking and community led.

“There can be no doubt it will bring real benefits for both. This kind of arrangement - which brings together diverse communities for mutual benefit - could prove a model for engagement across Scotland.”
 

 

Hebrides News - Gall Gael, South Uist regeneration

South Uist and Govan join forces to tackle economic problems   10/11/11