Shortlist for Community Ownership Awards announced

The Plunkett Foundation have announced the regional shortlists in the 2016 Rural Community Ownership Awards.

A diverse range of community cooperatives across Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have been shortlisted for the awards.

The Scottish finalists are:

• Buth Bharraigh Ltd, Isle of Barra
• Glenwyvis Distillery, Dingwall
• Raasay Community Shop, Isle of Raasay

Peter Couchman, Chief Executive of Plunkett Foundation, said:

"All over the UK and Ireland, people living in rural areas are taking matters into their own hands to address some of the challenges associated with rural life. Whilst living in the countryside can be wonderful, it can also be a struggle for many; for example, young families struggling to find work nearby or to afford to live locally; older people without families close by, or those who’ve recently retired and are looking for a new direction. Many rural people are experiencing loneliness, isolation or poverty because it’s difficult to access a lot of the things that are needed to participate fully in society and modern life – things like a regular bus service, being able to buy affordable food at a local shop, having reliable access to the internet, or somewhere to socialise and meet people.

"At Plunkett, we’ve seen first-hand the transformative power of co-operation, which is why we help people to set up businesses that are owned and run by the community and that address some of the real challenges facing our rural communities today. The Community Ownership Awards are designed to help communities celebrate their own success and learn from each other, and to raise awareness about the co-operative model and community ownership to a wider audience."

Winners will be announced at the Skyloft, Millbank Tower on Monday 28 November in London.

Visit the Plunkett Foundation website to find out more about the awards.