Bleachingfield, Dunbar
Meeting Notes
The meeting commenced with introductions and a moment of reflection in memory of Stephen Bunyan following his passing.
Organisational Visits
Alison provided an overview of her recent visits to various organisations.
Administrative Support
Stevie still does not have administrative support. However, attendees expressed general concern that we may need to find a way of funding the role. West Barns requested a review of funding for a minute secretary. Stevie will explore alternative funding sources beyond East Lothian Council (ELC). While some administrative aspects remain handled by ELC, they will not be attending meetings. Alison raised concerns about assuming responsibilities previously covered by ELC funding. Clarification is required regarding ELC’s funding intentions.
Funding Overview
The budget stands at £45,000, of which £21,000 has been spent, leaving a remaining balance of £24,000. Additional third-round funding is required, with an emphasis on scrutinising applications carefully to ensure consistency.
Roads Budget
The Preston Road project has been delivered, exceeding its allocated £50,000 budget. Various activities have been planned by the amenities team, though not all have been fully implemented. There is no allowance for carrying over unspent funding.
Late Applications
A number of late applications are under consideration.
Word Limits
Future applications will have enforced word limits, and all relevant papers will be distributed two weeks in advance. Acknowledgement was given to delays caused by illness.
Project Funding Discussions
- DAS & Dunbar Dementia Group – No questions were raised.
- Karele Equine Therapy – Applied for funding, having previously secured funding in Haddington. The project, which is connected to VCEL and schools, is provided at no cost to students. It involves 17 sessions at £35 per hour over an 8-week period.
- European Land Art Festival – Established for 10 years, originally as a European stone-stacking event. More details have been requested in the application. The total budget is £24,500, with noted restrictions if full funding is not secured.
- The Ridge – Applied for additional staffing in rural areas. Concerns were raised about the request for full funding, considering existing external funding. Questions were also raised regarding whether drop-in services provide targeted support.
- DayCP –Selection is based on youth worker assessment. A question was raised about religious affiliation, but it was clarified that funding is allocated based on activities rather than religious ties.
Community Directory
A 52-page A4 magazine is being planned, featuring quotes and recipes. The total cost is £11,500. The magazine will be distributed to the community, tourism companies, and media outlets, with the initial section focusing on town information and an insider guide. Advertising revenue is anticipated, and inclusion in schools is under consideration.
Community Gathering Event
A platform is being developed for sharing ideas and discussions among community organisations. A small working group will be formed, and event outcomes will be linked to the community directory. VCEL will be involved in shaping the event format.
East Lothian Development Group
The group is reviewing the effectiveness of the Partnership and aims to engage with the Area Partnership (AP) on new planning initiatives. A proposed attendance is scheduled for May, with a preference for a separate evening meeting. A request was made for written documentation ahead of discussions.
Parking Review – Area Partnership
Invitations have been issued to community councils for a meeting on 4th March. Alison confirmed her attendance, with others potentially joining.
AGM Meeting
There is no capacity to hold a community event prior to the AGM. Feedback will be provided to the public on the Partnership’s achievements, and secured administrative time will be used to prepare a PowerPoint presentation evaluating progress.
Community Group Roles
No additional groups are being sought due to oversubscription.
Health & Wellbeing Group
A request was made for the Health and Wellbeing Group to join as a DELAP group. However, Alison and Stevie explained that the current number of groups is already beyond the ideal capacity. They emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between core members and associated groups. Stevie outlined the complaints procedure should the group wish to appeal the decision.
Area Plan & Action Plan
Discussions on the Area Plan and Action Plan are ongoing. George highlighted that statistics are missing from pages 9 and 10, which need to be addressed.