SINGLE OUTCOME AGREEMENT Performance Report AONTA BUIL SHINGILTE Aithisg Coileanaidh 2010/11

30 September 2011

Highland Public Services Partnership Com-pàirteachas Sheirbheisean Poblach na Gàidhealtachd Contents Page 1. Foreword i

2. Introduction ii

NO 1 We live in a Scotland that is the most attractive place to do business in Europe 1.1 Castle Stuart Golf LLP 1.3

NO 2 We realise our full economic potential with more and better employment opportunities for our people 2.1 New Futures Sutherland 2.7 Assynt Community Association – community assets 2.8 Visitor Centre Fort Augustus 2.9 Routes West – Fort William 2.10

NO 3 We are better educated, more skilled and more successful, renowned for our research and innovation 3.1 Adult Learning Opportunities 3.5 Health research unit – University Highlands & Islands 3.6 Health Services Partnership – Remote Service Futures Project 3.7

NO 4 Our young people are successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens 4.1 Safe Highlanders – Becky’s Room 4.7 Youth Achievement Awards 4.8 GLOW – Feis Rois 4.9 The Angus Puff Story 4.10

NO 5 Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed 5.1 Alcohol Brief Interventions & Underage Drinkers 5.4 Operation Youth Advantage 5.5

NO 6 We live longer, healthier lives 6.1 Glint’s of Gold – Spectrum Centre, Inverness 6.4 Bowel Cancer Screening – reducing health inequalities 6.5 Highland Community Care Partnership – Joint Community Care Plan 6.6 Simple Pleasures Easily Found 6.8 Smoke Free Highland

NO 7 We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society 7.1 Healthy Well Weight North – South Skye & Lochalsh 7.7 Homeless Active Referral Scheme 7.8 Let’s Get together Partnership – Highland & Argyll and Bute 7.9

NO 8 We have improved the life chances for children, young people and families at risk 8.1 The Highland Underage Sex Protocol (HUSP) 8.5 Wild Things! 8.6 Highland Youth Convener 8.8 Youth Health & Wellbeing

NO 9 We live our lives safe from crime, disorder and danger 9.1 Tackling the number of deer on the roads – Road Safety 9.9 Preventing Anti-social behaviour – Hoax Call DVD 9.10 Literacies Opportunities for Offenders 9.11 Tackling Noise Pollution 9.12

NO 10 We live in well designed, sustainable places where we are able to access the amenities and services we need 10.1 Open Spaces in New Residential Development: Interim Supplementary Guidance 10.4 Assynt Centre, Lochinver 10.5 Highland Core Path Improvement Programme 10.6 Green Networks: Interim Supplementary Guidance 10.7

NO 11 We have strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and 11.1 how they affect others Sleat Community Trust – Tormore Forest 11.5 Sutherland Partnership Environmental Fund & Caithness Environmental Fund 11.6 Kinmylies Action Plan – Create Facilities for Young People through ‘Fusion’ 11.7 Dunbar Centre Pop-in 11.8

NO 12 We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations 12.1 Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve – visitor & interpretative facilities 12.5 Great Glen Canoe Trail 12.6 Glenurquhart Primary School – Healthy Outdoors 12.7 Highland Historic Environment Record 12.8

NO 13 We take pride in a strong fair and inclusive national identity 13.1 Royal National Mod 13.3

NO 14 We reduce the local and global environmental impact of our consumption and production 14.1 Highland Climate Change Declaration 14.5 Highland Energy Partnership 14.6

NO 15 Our public services are high quality, continually improving, efficient and responsive to local people’s needs 15.1 Transformational Change Programme for Community Care 15.6 Caithness, Sutherland & Easter Ross Area Forum 15.7 Milton of Leys Primary School – Education Capital Programme 15.8

1. Foreword Facal-tòiseachaidh

In 2010-11 the Highland Public Services Partnership can demonstrate its effective joint working at a strategic level, in operational delivery and in active engagement with communities. This is evident from this annual performance report which includes an assessment of progress against performance indicators and examples of community planning in action for each of the Scottish Government’s 15 national outcomes.

The Partnership’s Performance Board has agreed a set of shared values which will guide the behaviours and working relationships required for public services in the Highlands. It has successfully challenged the arrangements for joint working to support the achievement of several local and national outcomes. The new arrangements being developed to integrate services for children and adults with care needs show the willingness among partners to fundamentally re-arrange services to achieve better outcomes for people.

The partnership has also considered the impact of reduced public resources on Highland communities and is working together to plan how to minimise the impact.

In addition to the establishment of stakeholder forums for key sectors the Council has also established a Citizens’ Panel and this is providing a useful method of gauging public opinion. Ward forums continue to provide a forum to discuss public service delivery with communities across the Highlands.

This performance report provides good evidence of the progress being made in Highland to contribute to achieving not only the national outcomes but the local outcomes set within SOA2. This third report will assist the Performance Board continue to plan and review partnership arrangements and improve performance.

Sandy Park (Convener, The Highland Council) Chair Highland Public Services Partnership i 2. Introduction Ro-ràdh This is the third annual report on the Highland Single Outcome Agreement and covers the period 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011 following the submission of SOA2 (2009-11).

The report provides: • An overview of progress against each of the 15 national outcomes. • Data, data trends and analysis for the indicators used to evidence progress against the delivery of national and local outcomes (15). • Examples of community planning in action (case studies) to provide qualitative evidence against each of the 15 national outcomes which also demonstrate achievement or progress towards local outcomes.

In relation to the SOA2 indicators against the national outcomes the table below provides an overview of the progress in terms of the number of indicators which: show improvement; are sustained or have declined. Fifteen local outcomes have been deployed against the fifteen national outcomes.

In addition there is significant cross referencing of performance outcome across national outcomes with indicators located in the most relevant national outcome. In development of SOA2 potential links between new local outcomes and national outcomes were identified, these have been investigated in terms of identifying appropriate strategic indicators. There are recommendations again in this report for 2010/11 to refine the approach to measurement and these are signposted in the report templates for each national outcome.

Performance out-turns for the Community Planning Partnership Overall there has been a reduction between SOA 1 and SOA2 in the number of local outcomes and related indicators. This provides a more focused data set for performance management and measurement and creates a new baseline for monitoring and challenge purposes. For this third report on SOA2 the percentage of indicators showing improved or sustained performance is 89%, this relates to indicators where data is available to make a judgement.

The table coding below is also used throughout the report to highlight improved indicators (√), indictors of performance being sustained (=), indicators of performance declining (x) and (*) indicators where data is unattainable or baselines have not been established so no judgement can be made on progress. A few indicators have served their purpose and are now marked complete (C).

ii Overall SOA position - 89% improved, sustained or completed of those indicators where data have been reported.

National No. of No. where data is Improved Sustained Completed Declining No data Outcome indicators available (√) (=) (C) (x) available (*) 1 3 3 2 0 0 1 0 2 26 19 9 6 0 4 7 3 8 6 6 0 0 0 2 4 16 4 1 3 0 0 12 5 9 4 4 0 0 0 5 6 8 8 7 1 0 0 0 7 21 18 11 2 4 1 3 8 13 13 3 6 0 4 0 9 22 21 12 9 0 0 1 10 9 8 6 2 0 0 1 11 10 10 10 0 0 0 0 12 8 8 6 1 0 1 0 13 4 3 2 0 0 1 1 14 9 9 5 1 1 2 0 15 15 13 10 1 0 2 2 Total 181 147 94 32 5 16 34 % 100% 81% 64% 22% 3% 11% 19%

Partner No. No. Indicators No. On Target Indicators with data The Highland Council 124 101 87 Northern Constabulary 18 17 17 NHS Highland 15 10 10 Highlands & Islands Enterprise 10 6 6 Skills Development Scotland 7 6 6 University Highlands & Islands 4 3 3 Highlands &Islands Fire & Rescue Service 1 1 1 Scottish Natural Heritage 1 1 0 Scottish Government 1 0 0 iii Areas of notable improvement in performance indicated by data and data analysis are:

Economy, Employment and Skills • Year on year growth in the Highland population continues with population standing at 221,630 in 2010/11 compared to a 215,310 base line in 2006/7 (NO1). • Good progress continues to be made in increasing the installed capacity of renewable energy with an increase to 1297.41MW in 2010/11 against a baseline of 506MW in 2005/6 (NO2). • The number of children taking up skills for work opportunities continues to increase with 4356 cumulative to 2010/11 compared to a 2006/7 baseline of 278 (NO2). • The percentage of young people with sustained positive outcomes from the Get Ready for Work programme increased to 62.7% in 2010/11 compared to 37% in 2007/8 (NO2). • The number of pupils receiving individual careers advice increased to 7492 in 2010/11 compared to the 2007/8 baseline of 6595 (NO3).

Education, Families and Health • The number of children and young people taking part in recognised leadership awards remains high with 1641 in 2010/11 against a target of 1056 and a baseline of 767 in 2006/7 (NO4). • The number of vulnerable under 4 year olds accessing funded targeted services including Supported Toddler was 1560 in 2010/11 exceeding the 1100 target and well above the 798 2006/7 baseline (NO5). • The number of people supported through smoking cessation services increased to 4302 in 2010/11 well above the 3606 target set and the 1345 baseline in 2008/9 (NO6). • The occupied bed rate per 1,000 population as a result of emergency admission for patients aged 65 and over reduced to 3027 in 2010/11 compared to the baseline of 3520 in 2004/5 and a target of 3344 (NO6).

Tackling inequality • The financial benefit to customers for advice provided directly by the Council or from services contracted by the Council from independent advice providers have both increased to £6.993m in 2010/11 compared to £5.93m in 2009/10 and £4.727m baseline in 2006/7 (NO7). • The uptake of free school meals by those entitled increased to 84.3% in 2010/11 compared to a baseline of 77.6% in 2006/7 (NO7). • Uptake of opportunities for adult literacy learners increased to 2439 in 2010/11 compared to a baseline of 1828 I 2006/7 and a target of 2011 (NO7).

Community Safety and Environment • The numbers of recorded crime across all categories have reduced in 2010/11 including a reduction to 4625 for recorded iv crimes of dishonesty compared to 6039 baseline in 2006/7 (NO9). • Reconviction rated in Highland reduced to 40.1% in 2010/11 compared to 45% in 2005/6 meeting the target to reduce by 2% (NO9). • The number of affordable houses completed or on site reached 2195 in 2010/11 exceeding the target set of 2000 (NO10). • Against a baseline of 27% in 2006/7 the number of residents reporting that they volunteer in Highland increased to 36.3% in 2010/11 (NO11). • The levels of community acceptance of new residents (to some or a great extend) rose to 85% in 2010/11 compared to a baseline of 82% in 2006/7. • There has been further improvement in the number of Highland schools achieving Eco Schools awards with 138 Bronze, 136 Silver and 70 with the prestigious Green Flag status. This is against a 2006/7 baseline of 36 Bronze, 18 Silver and 13 Green Flag (NO12).

Consumption and Efficiency • The energy use in Council buildings continues to reduced to 132.9GW in 2010/11 reaching the target set of 134.9 GW against a baseline of 158.7GW in 2004/5 (NO14). • The number of school receiving positive inspections reports has increased further to 94.9% in 2010/11against a baseline of 88% in 2006/7 (NO15). • Satisfaction with Highland Council services rose to 85% in 2010/11 the highest recorded level and compared to a baseline of 80% in 2006/7 demonstrating year on year improvement. • The Council has exceeded its efficiency targets achieving savings of £8.961M against a target of £8M (NO15).

Areas of decline: • The number and percentage of working age population unemployed and living in Highland in the 15% most deprived data zones has again increased to 9.85% (682 claimants) in 2010/11. This compares with 4.6% (5600 claimants) for the Highlands as a whole (NO2). • There has been a reduction in the number of people describing themselves as ‘well disposed’ towards Gaelic at 36.2% in 2010/11 compared to the baseline of 41% in 2007/8 (NO13) • There was an increase in the amount of waste that was land filled in 2010/11 at 65.7% against a target of 60% (NO14)

Improving the SOA reporting process In order to support performance reporting for the Single Outcome Agreement new partnership arrangements were put in place to gather and analyse performance data. A review of performance indicators was also undertaken in spring 2010 with partners with further refinement discussed during the development of this report. Within the SOA2 report in 2009/10 recommendations for changes to indicators were signposted and agreed by partners; these changes are reflected in the 2010/11 report. Further recommendations for change have been made in this report and are signposted within the national outcome templates. v

National Outcome 1 We live in a Scotland that is the most attractive place to do business in Europe

Tha sinn a’ fuireach ann an Alba a tha cho tarraingeach ri àite san Roinn Eòrpa gus gnothachas a dhèanamh

Inward Investment activity in the Highlands has been progressing on a variety of fronts. The Council is working closely with Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) to progress the Highland elements of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan (NRIP). A number of potential locations, for manufacturing and operational activities related to the renewable energy sector, have been identified by this process in the Highlands, namely Nigg, Ardersier and Kishorn. The Council has assisted HIE with presenting the merits of these locations to a number of potential inward investors. In particular, we have stressed the importance the Council places on attracting inward investment to these sites, and have provided advice and assistance on the planning aspects of developing these facilities. We have also taken an active role in Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) activities related to these locations.

Inward investment opportunities are also undertaken as part of the Council’s role in the Caithness and North West Sutherland Regeneration Project. The development of marine renewables in the Pentland Firth means that the area is attractive to businesses wishing to exploit the renewable energy resource. The Council, as a lead member of this initiative, has also met with potential inward investors interested in investment opportunities in this area.

The Highland Economic Forum, established by the Council to encourage closer links between the Private and Public Sectors, has established an Inward Investment and Outsourcing Working Group, to examine ways in which we can work together to develop inward investment opportunities. Currently the group is examining ways of, encouraging outsourcing business development in the area, exploring the potential to establish Enterprise Areas, and to promote the Highlands as a place to live and work.

In order to make the Highlands an attractive location for inward investment, the Council has supported efforts to develop international airlinks. The recently announced Flybe service between Inverness and Amsterdam has come as a direct result of this work. Links to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport will provide the area with alternative links into the Global marketplace and will make the Highlands a more attractive location for inward investment.

Finally, the Council provides a planning pre application service that offers potential inward investors the opportunity to discuss development opportunities with all the relevant agencies in the area.

1. 1

Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at Status at end Local Outcome Indicators Baseline Targets March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 2010/11 Local outcome Year on year Growth of 1.A increase in the between 700 Highland population 215,310 and 1200 per People across the from 208,920 (2006) 217,440 219,400 220,490 221,630 3 annum to Highlands have (Census 2001) THC 2010/11 access to the (2010/11) services they need Increase the number of new learners 758 Above supported with (2006/07) 1317 1412* 1256* 1154 3 1090 English language THC tuition Narrative on progress on Local Outcome *Revised figures after error and double counting

Local outcome 1.I Increase % non householder

To support the planning applications economy access is dealt with within two 60% 47.4% 47.7% 44.1% 52.5%* 46.8% improved to months X (2010/11) (2006/07) See note 2 See note 2 housing, transport THC and high speed broadband Narrative on progress on Local Outcome Note 2 - SPI verified by Audit Scotland

1. 2

National Outcome 1 We live in a Scotland that is the most attractive place to do business in Europe

Local Outcome 1A People across the Highlands have access to the services they need

Castle Stuart Golf LLP Castle Stuart Golf Links Castle Stuart Golf LLP was incorporated in May 2006 to design, construct and manage the ongoing development of the new links golf course located on the Moray Firth coast.

As a course aiming to be one of the best in the world and having only opened to the public in 2009, Castle Stuart Golf course has received a number of prestigious awards and world wide recognition. Course customers travel from around the world and are attracted to the very best ‘must play’ golf destination and ‘must play’ golf experiences. This growth recently culminated in the hosting of the prestigious Barclay’s Scottish Open 2011, and the event is set to return to the area for another 2 years. In 2011, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), The Highland Council and Events Scotland worked in partnership to provide a funding package towards the supporting costs of hosting the 2011 event. Being only the seventh venue to host the prestigious event, and the first within the Highlands and Islands, it was important to utilise the marketing opportunity for the area the occasion would bring. As a catalyst to showcasing the region to the world as a golf destination and as an attractive place to live, work and invest, the public sector recognised the importance to ensure the 1st year was a success. To fully understand the benefits of this event to the area and to inform future similar events’ organisational and marketing strategies, HIE has commissioned an Economic Impact Assessment, with the report finalised by the end of September 2011.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Highlands and Islands Enterprise; The Highland Council; Event Scotland.

1. 3 National Outcome 2 We realise our full economic potential with more and better employment opportunities for our people Tha sinn a’ toirt ar làn chomais eaconamach gu buil le cothroman cosnaidh nas lìonmhor is nas fheàrr airson ar sluaigh

The economic fortunes of Highland have improved significantly over recent years and the Highland economy has been less affected by the global economic downturn than other areas in Scotland. Maintaining this trend and achieving sustainable growth requires a range of approaches and interventions by the public sector.

Skills Development Scotland (SDS) offers help to individuals and businesses though the National Training Programmes and a range of Employer Recruitment Incentives (e.g. Flexible Training Opportunities whereby a business can get up to 50% help with staff training as long as it is not statutory training – details of these are on the SDS website

HIE’s vision of a successful and competitive region aims to see Highland with increasing numbers of people choosing to live, work and invest here. HIE is focusing its efforts around supporting the growth of businesses and social enterprises particularly through an account management approach. This enables HIE to target intervention where it can have the greatest impact on growth and productivity. Account managed clients are provided with a broad range of practical help. In addition to financial assistance, support packages can include specialist advice, innovation support, management, leadership and workforce development. HIE also supports the development of the Highland’s key industries and seeks to build distinctive regional opportunities, the critical component of which is joined up working between the public agencies.

The Council delivers the Business Gateway service which is part of a national programme that provides practical information and help for start up and existing businesses and identifies and gives additional support to businesses with growth potential, to enable them to develop their businesses and progress to account management with HIE and further targeted intervention. Allied to this advisory service, the Council and its wholly owned Enterprise Trust – Highland Opportunity Ltd. has a range of grant and loan finance to assist businesses to start up and grow.

The Highland Economic Forum, established by the Council to encourage closer links between the Private and Public Sectors, has developed an Action Plan with a series of public private sector working groups to take forward the work required. Working Groups have been established to address the following issues: Tourism; Construction/Infrastructure; Energy/Manufacturing; ICT; Research Institutes; Inward Investment/Outsourcing, and Entrepreneur & Enterprise Development/Social Enterprise

2. 1

Highland Works – the Highland employability partnership, seeks through the co-ordination of its partners efforts and resources to reduce the number of individuals reliant on work related benefits and increase the number of those individuals who have overcome barriers to employment. As those removed from the labour market have a range of agencies providing support for them, the partnership is working at both a strategic and operational level to deliver a seamless service for clients as they progress through each stage towards the world of work.

Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress Progress Progress Status at Progress at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March at March at March end Target March 2010 2008 2009 2011 2010/11 Local outcome 2.G Increase the 5.7 per 1,000 business start up population in 5.7 per 4.6 per 3.9 per 4.4 per Impact of The impact of the rate (Data to be 2007 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 recession recession is limited available by Local (2007) population population population population baseline reset and sustainable Authority area) HIE in 2007 in 2008 in 2009 in 2010 to 2009/10 economic growth is Transferred to supported THC Increase the number 167 of business start ups (2009/10) 272 n/a n/a 167 243 = with public agency THC business 2010/11 support gateway Increase the number Target to be of business start ups confirmed 49 private sector with public agency following (2006/07) 65 n/a 159 225 support (private Business THC sector) Gateway n.b. indicator split discussions. Increase the number Target to be of business start ups 5 social confirmed with public agency enterprise following n/a n/a 8 18 support (social (2006/07) Business enterprise) THC Gateway discussions. Increase the number New Indicator of account managed 16 10 14 n/a 16 first reported social enterprises (2008/09) (cum 26) (cum 40) 2010/11 with growth plans

2. 2 Increase the number of VAT registered Data 620 businesses (split for source no (2006/07) 860 social enterprise and * * longer * HIE/THC private sector is available unavailable) Increase the number of new VAT Now registered 1,101 1,230 1,015 863 984 recovering businesses (split for (2006) (2007) (2008) (2009) (2010) = from impact of social enterprise and HIE recession private sector is unavailable) Increase the number New source of of businesses in data = ONS 8665 Highland, measured Business (2007) 8665 8710 n/a n/a as the number of * Demography THC active enterprises first available 2011 Increase the number range of 30-40 42 of account managed 52 27 New Indicator (2008/09) n/a 42 businesses with (cum 94) (cum 121) first reported HIE growth plans. 2010/11 Increase installed 506MW capacity of 1280MW (2005) 689.27MW 819.45MW 930.37MW 1297.41 renewable energy to (2010) THC 1280MW by 2010 Working Age Revised Employment rate 79.9% 79.1% 81.7% figures from 82.0% 79.3% (2006) (2008) (2009) Scottish Govt (2007) (2010) = HIE revised revised (based on APS) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The number of HIE account managed businesses and social enterprises with growth plans in Highland had increased in 2010-11 (23% and 54% respectively). The number of new businesses (registered with Scottish Clearing Banks) increased slightly in 2010 compared to the previous year (+14%). This level is still lower when compared with the pre-recession period (2008 and earlier). The business start up rate (per 1,000 population) had also increased in 2010 compared to 2009.

The employment rate in Highland was 79.3% in 2010, slightly down from 81.7% in 2009

2. 3 Local outcome 2.J Maintain support for people into and More people are sustained in work 268* At least 250 per supported into through Council (2006/07) 300* 343* 373* 216 X annum employment grant and loans THC (to 2010-11) schemes to business Reduce the number and % of working 9.80% age population 5.55% 4.90% 7.90% 8.90% (682 unemployed and (403 claimants) (366 (588 (643 1.5% claimants) living in Highland in (2006/07) claimants)- claimants) claimants) X (2030) see Note the 15% most THC see Note 2 see Note 2 see Note 2 2 deprived datazones in Scotland Reduce the number and % of working 3.8% - 4,300 3.2% - 3.4% - 4.3% - Source: APS 4.6% - age population See Note 3 3,800 4,000 5,200 X (Jan-Dec), 5,600 unemployed and (2006/07) See Note 3 See Note 3 See Note 3 Scottish Govt living in Highland HIE Increase number of 1700 278 1099 children taking part 698 1210 1171 (2010/11) (2006/07) (4356 in Skills for Work (976 cum) (2186 cum) (3357 cum) cumulative for 4 THC cum) courses years Increase the number 63% (236 of young people starts) 69% 70% 63% 80% 75.5% completing (2007/08) (22 starts) (2007/08) (236 starts) (199 starts) (155 starts) = Skillseekers SDS See note SDS programme 4 Increase the number of young people with 37% 62.7% 50% sustained positive (205 starts) 37% 38% 51.9% (212 (2007/08) outcomes from the (2007/08) (205 starts) (233 starts) (264 starts) starts) Get Ready for Work SDS programme

Maintain the 67% 67% 81% 77.7% 68.9% 75% number of young (481 start) (481 start) (451 start) (324 start) (495 = (2008/09)

2. 4 people completing (2007/08) starts) apprenticeships SDS Increase number of trainees and 150 170 apprentices (2006/07) 150 200 206 149 X (2010/11) employed by the THC Council Increase the number 50 from ESF of young people (16- Scheme matched 19) supported in Programme complete programmes work through the begins in 2008 n/a 17 19 No data * future target Council’s THC available TBC Employment Grant (2008/09) Scheme Narrative on progress on Local Outcome *Indicator has been recalculated due to error in previous calculations. Note 2 – Indicators re-baselined by Scottish Government. Note 3 - Scottish Government data has been revised Note 4 - The Skillseekers programme is coming to an end once the current cohort have completed

The unemployment rate in Highland in 2010 was at 4.6%, compared with the rate of 7.7% for Scotland, so the region is performing better than the rest of the country. This level for Highland in 2010 compares to a slightly lower figure of 4.3% in 2009.

Local outcome 2.N Increase median Increase earnings in £s for earnings in

The impact of poverty residents living in real terms by £16,963* £18,993- and disadvantage is the local authority 5% over 3- per year £17,281* £18,615* £19,293* no reduced area who are years revised revised revised revised confidence = employed new indicator (2006) in the trend first report HIE 2010/11 (THC area) Increase the overall Develop income and National Framework in proportion of income Framework place and earned by the 3 n/a n/a n/a n/a (2008/09) * operational lowest income Scottish (2010/11) deciles as a group Government by 2017

2. 5 Public sector jobs 95% Council decentralised jobs located out Minimum 95% 95.8% 95.8% 95.2% 96.6% with HQ (by 2011) THC At least maintain n/a educational tariff 187 189 Due Targets under (2007/08) 185 scores for S4 pupils 185 * 187* Oct-11 * review THC (cumulative) At least maintain n/a educational tariff 306 311 Due Targets under (2007/08) 296 scores for S5 pupils 294* 306* Oct-11 * review THC (cumulative) At least maintain n/a educational tariff 356 362 381 Due Targets under (2007/08) scores for S6 pupils 355* 356* 362* Oct-11 * review THC (cumulative) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome *Data amended to report on Academic Year with 2010/11 due for reporting in October 2011.

2. 6

National Outcome 2 We realise our full economic potential with more and better employment opportunities for our people

Local Outcome 2J More people are supported into employment

New Futures Sutherland The New Futures Sutherland team offer one- to-one mentoring to vulnerable adults to New Futures Sutherland offers a flexible, confidential one-to-one mentoring service to those aged 16 years achieve training or employment outcomes. and over resident in Sutherland who have experienced difficulty in accessing the labour market. The service builds skills and self esteem enabling the client to take positive steps towards a new future. The project is run by Sutherland Partnership and employs a Project Leader and 10 part time Project Workers. The Project Management Team includes the lead officers listed below. The project is currently funded by Big Lottery Fund and Highland and Islands Enterprise. Clients are referred from a range of agency and voluntary partners including: Skills Development Scotland, Jobcentre Plus, Advocacy Highland, North West Sutherland Advisory Service, NHS Highland (Health Visitors, GPs and Community Psychiatric Nurses) Caithness and Sutherland Women’s Aid and the Local Learning Centre network. Clients are also able to self refer. Clients’ needs are assessed at registration and an individual plan is developed which includes milestones that lead to training or employment. Clients receive one-to-one mentoring from project workers and progress is measured against each client’s individual plan. In the year April 2010 to March 2011 New Futures Sutherland achieved the following outcomes: From a total of 63 clients, 41 engaged in a wide variety of local training opportunities and further education, all which enhanced their confidence, self-esteem and added to their employability skills Of 31 clients who left the project in 2010/11, 24 clients achieved positive multiple outcomes: 12 clients found a mixture of full time, part time and self employed work 3 clients found voluntary work 11 participated in training both at Learning Centres and from home 5 clients attended Further Education colleges

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Mary Macleod, Sutherland Partnership; Phil Tomalin, Andy Mackay The Highland Council; Anne Sutherland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise; Ann Keatinge, Voluntary Groups East Sutherland; Georgia Haire, NHS Highland.

2. 7

Local Outcome 2G The impact of the recession is limited and sustainable economic growth is supported (Contributing to LO J) Assynt Community Association (ACA) is a registered Charity and Company Limited by Guarantee; and is The Lochinver Mission the parent company of 2 community-owned social enterprises, The Fisherman’s Mission, and Community Care Assynt.

In 2010 after consulting with the whole community and acting on their behalf the ACA successfully applied for funding for £776k to purchase and redevelop the former RNDSFM Mission and entered into a long term lease with the Highland Council whose ground the building sat on.

The Lochinver Mission project is part of the BBC Learning Communities programme and the funding came from The Big Lottery, HIE, Community Energy Scotland, Highland Leader, EU Agricultural Fund and the Ward Discretionary Budget. Included in the Big Lottery funding was the post of a Village Champion for 1 year. A number of partners were involved, in particular the 3 Highland Councillors serving the Ward who were instrumental in getting Highland Council support to lease the land to ACA. They received invaluable support from the staff at Big Lottery, HIE, Business Gateway, Local Development Officer who’s part of the Café HIE Strengthening Communities Programme, Community Energy Scotland and a number of Highland Council staff.

The construction phase that involved local volunteers, began in December 2010 has now been completed. The Lochinver Mission will offer Bunkhouse Accommodation, Café Facilities, a Marine Life Centre and Archive, all incorporating new energy efficiency and renewable heating. It will provide employment for 10 staff and will benefit local people, tourists and visitors to Assynt. The Marine Life Centre and Archive, is due to start as part of the second phase and it hopes to be completed by September 2011 and this will give a new valuable interactive attraction for the area. (See Outcome 10 for further case study on Assynt Community Care)

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Big Lottery; Violaine Roberts (Village Champion), Sandy Johnston, ACA; Cllr George Farlow, Cllr Linda Munro, Cllr Robbie Rowantree, Tony Usher, David Knight, Andy Mackay, The Highland Council; Roy Kirk, Anne Sutherland, Neil Gerrard, HIE; Fiona Cameron, Leader Programme; John Priddy, Mel Robertson Community Energy Scotland; European Agricultural Fund.

2. 8

Local Outcome G The impact of the recession is limited and sustainable economic growth is supported (contributing to LO J)

The Clansman Centre The Canal at Fort Augustus and its adjacent embankments are owned by British Waterways Scotland. They are working in collaboration with the local community to develop a 9,000 ft2 Visitor Centre by creating a high quality mixed use canal side development which incorporates the revival of the existing historic Clansman Centre. British Waterways Scotland is tied to the canal and see it as a tourism destination development opportunity. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument of UK importance. The Clansman Centre is active at present – but it does not have frontage for visitors. It is proximate to Loch Ness with natural views from the site. The scale of any development needs to be sympathetic with the location. The average dwell time for visitors to Fort Augustus is 20-40 minutes. This needs to be extended to maximise the benefit of their stay.

This development will contribute to regenerating the canal side; provide opportunities for local businesses; and provide employment for local people. Artists impression of new visitor centre British Waterways Scotland have engaged with the local Councillors; the Community Council; the local Community Company; the local Business Initiative; and Highland Council officials to progress their plans. They have attended the Fort Augustus & Glenmoriston Community Council to present their proposals. The current leaseholder of the Clansman Centre has been consulted about the proposals and is supportive of them. A Workshop took place in Fort Augustus on 28th April 2011 attended by 23 people that included local entrepreneurs as well as representatives from the agencies listed below. The participants endorsed the British Waterways Scotland proposals and also provided some additional ideas that could be included. E.g. make it flexible so that it can be used as a public meeting space and for musical events. British Waterways Scotland are now working on a Planning Application for submission to the local Planning Authority. Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Mark Smith, Russell Thomson, British Waterways Scotland; Cllr Margaret Davidson; Cllr Hamish Wood, Colin Ross, Charles Stephen, Gordon Ireland, The Highland Council; Stuart Findlay, Fort Augustus & Glenmoriston Community Council; Harry Whiteside, Fort Augustus Community Company; Cameron Donnelly, Fort Augustus, Glenmoriston and Glengarry Business Initiative; Graeme Ambrose, Destination Loch Ness.

2. 9 Local Outcome 2G The impact of the recession is limited and sustainable economic growth is supported (contributing to LO B; D; L)

The ‘Routes West’ project is a physical regeneration project which has improved both the east and west ends of Fort William High Street contributing to the economic regeneration of the town. The project acknowledges the strong links between the new end of the West Highland Way and the beginning of the Great Glen Way. It has seen the transformation of the Underpass at the east end of the High Street which was badly vandalised, into an area which is clean and bright and which enjoys artwork created by local people. The east end element of the project was driven by a steering group with representatives from the Highland Council Education, Culture and Sport Service, Chief Executives service, TEC Services, street lighting, criminal justice service, The Street work project, Fort William community Council, Ward 22 Councillors, Lochaber High School and talented individuals with a passion to see the public space improved.

The west end of the High Street now welcomes walkers from all over the world, who have completed the West Highland Way. They now have a specially designed area featuring innovative technology and modern clean lined design which sits comfortably in the existing surroundings. The space is equally enjoyed by visitors and residents alike.

The economic regeneration work has helped arrest the economic slow down affecting the High Street, created a focus for economic, community, recreational and cultural activity and contributed to the retention of jobs in the locality. The project was developed and supported by a wide range of community groups and agencies driven principally by the Fort William Steering group and the Lochaber community planning partnership. The funding for this project was provided by the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Regeneration Fund, Highland Council, EU Highland LEADER 2007-2013 Programme, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Rotary Club of Lochaber

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: Fort William Steering Group; Lochaber Partnership & Underpass steering group; Dot Ferguson,The Highland Council (these groups and partnership have a wide membership including representation for the statutory, voluntary and private sectors)

2. 10 National Outcome 3 We are better educated, more skilled and more successful, renowned for our research and innovation Tha sinn nas foghlamaichte, nas sgileil is nas soirbheachaile, agus ainmeil airson an rannsachaidh is an innleachdais againn

The 2nd February 2011 was a historic day when UHI Millennium Institute became the University of the Highlands and Islands. The achievement of becoming a university is the realisation of a long-time ambition for the region to have its own university to support economic development and to help sustain rural and island communities.

August 2010 saw a significant change in the educational landscape across one of the most stunning areas in Europe. West Highland College UHI, formed by the merger of Lochaber College UHI and Skye and Wester Ross College, formally launched at a gathering in Gairloch, Wester Ross, creating benefits for students across the region. The main driver for creating this new college – which is a partner in UHI, the University of the Highlands and Islands - has been to provide more opportunities for further and higher education in the West Highlands. Increased access to further and higher education by students who do not have to leave the region is recognised as a way of invigorating the economic, social and cultural prospect of these communities.

A new £5 million renewable energy research centre, which will boost international development of the green economy, at North Highland College UHI in Thurso, part of the prospective University of the Highlands and Islands, was completed in January 2011. Students, researchers, technicians and support staff moved into the landmark Centre for Energy and the Environment, the new home for the college’s Environmental Research Institute (ERI) which is exploring the region’s marine energy resources, and the environmental impact of schemes aiming to produce power from them. The new centre includes laboratories and workshops, a video-conferencing suite, technicians’ office, and meeting rooms, and will sit alongside a new Engineering Skills Centre. Together, they will be the largest investment in Caithness for over 50 years – marking its importance to the burgeoning renewable energy industry. The building will be the base for a £4 million marine renewable energy research project, known as MaREE (Marine Renewable Energy and the Environment) and led by the ERI, which will play a pivotal role in the development of this key industry for the region and Scotland.

MaREE researchers – including scientists from the Scottish Association for Marine Science UHI in Dunstaffnage, near Oban – are developing a sustainable programme of research, plus associated knowledge transfer, commercial enterprise and teaching, looking at issues such as tidal resource and wave climate assessments; weather windowing for installation and maintenance; interaction of marine mammals, fish and seabirds with devices; marine policy and spatial planning; sustainable development and community engagement. In addition NHC UHI in Thurso has been part of UK wide university project on marine energy called Supergen, which has funded new postgraduate researchers.

3. 1 An independent economic impact assessment published in March 2011 reported that the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) contributes £191m every year to the Scottish economy and supports 3,300 full time jobs. Scotland’s newest university also helps to sustain a further contribution of £202m every year and 2,700 jobs through the further education provision of the 13 academic partners and research institutions in the partnership. The report ‘Economic impact of the University of the Highlands and Islands and its academic partners’ showed that for every £1 invested in UHI, the university put back nearly £4 into the Scottish economy. The UK’s newest university is a central component of the competitiveness of the Highland region. HIE and other public sector partners have supported the University of the Highlands and Islands since its inception in the 1990s and will continue to help it develop and drive forward excellence.

A further vital component of regional competitiveness is the availability of a skilled workforce. In addition to the support to businesses and social enterprises to increase management, leadership and workforce development, HIE supports, develops and manages a number of projects and programmes designed to engage young people in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) with the aim of ensuring a skilled workforce is capable of growing our key sectors and attractive to inward investors. Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is HIE’s key partner in this area of work. Businesses and social enterprises are also supported to develop with graduate and undergraduate placements through Talent Scotland and from knowledge transfer with academic institutions

SDS is adjusting its approaches to accommodate the changing needs of clients and businesses in Highland. New products and services are being introduced which will make effective use of technology and allow clients in more rural areas greater access. There has been an increased level of partnership working with staff in the Community Planning Partnership for the Highland Council area which is allowing for a more efficient use of combined resources. This targeted approach to client needs will allow for more time and effort to be devoted to those clients with the greatest needs while at the same empowering an increasing number of clients have the confidence and competence to make effective use of these products and services.

Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress Progress Status at Progress at Progress at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March at March end Targets March 2008 March 2009 2010 2011 2010/11 Local outcome 3.H Increase number of Revised Revised Revised Growth in the people studying in UHI data sets data sets data sets To increase knowledge economy is the number of supported by Total Total Total enrolments achieving full 3,506 headcount: headcount: headcount from students Due university title for UHI (2006/07) 7,865 7,548 : 8113 with a Oct-11 * in 3 years UHI postcode, on Total Total Total entry in enrolments enrolments enrolment Highland with a with a s with a (2010/11) highland highland highland 3. 2 postcode: postcode: postcode: 2,654 2572 2826

(33.74%) (34.08%) (34.83%) Increase in knowledge To increase transfer activity by UHI the value of all (as per SFC metrics) Knowledge £3.9m Transfer Due (2006/07) £4.9m £5.118m £5.123m activity by UHI Jul-12 3 UHI partners in Highland to £6M (2010/11) Local content in public £0.5m sector supported (2007/09) HIE renewables R&D activity HIE/UHI/HIR Remit has Remove EG Due Dec- changed £0.5m £0.2m indicator from (Highlands 10 data no * future reports Renewable longer Energy accessible Group) Increase Research & To increase Development activity by the value of all UHI (as per SFC research & metrics) £3.2m development Due (2006/07) £3.1m £3.4m £5.7m activity by UHI Jul-12 3 UHI partners in Highland to £5M (2010/11) Establish renewable Baseline to £0.5M (UHI) energy as a major be calculated N/A £0.5m £1.0m £1.0m Double by theme of research with 3 (2010/11) UHI Narrative on progress on Local Outcome Increase number of people studying in UHI - The percentage of enrolments from students with a post code on entry within the Highland area remains steady. We recognise the need for even greater flexibility in curriculum and learning pathways, and in light of the continual reduction of the number of students for which we are funded; we have had to grow our HE provision with a high proportion of fees-only activity.

3. 3 Increase in knowledge transfer activity by UHI (as per SFC metrics) – Data for 2011 will be available in July 2012. Although only a small increase has been recorded in 2008/9 and 2009/10, we would hope to reach the £6m target with greater speed in light of university status. This impact estimates the value of the contribution UHI makes to the local economy through assisting small businesses by giving them support, engaging with them, transferring knowledge, contributing to commercialisation of research and starting up and spinning in companies. Increase Research & Development activity by UHI (as per SFC metrics) These data reflect the growth in grant income and direct SFC recurrent income for UHI research teams in Highland. Grant income is derived from a large range of funders including EU, Scottish and UK Government and industry. SFC recurrent income has remained roughly stable. ERDF grant income also features strongly. The research includes environmental science, renewables energy, life sciences, heritage and culture and social policy, all having strong links to the region’s economy and UHI’s curriculum

Establish renewable energy as a major theme of research From a relatively small base, significant investment (upwards of £8m in Highland) in building capacity in renewable energy research has taken place over the last three years, both for new researchers and extensive capital investment. These investments are close to achieving the goal of truly “establishing” long lasting renewables research in Thurso, and further work is underway to extend this growth into Inverness in the next two years. The target of establishing an activity with a £0.5m annual turnover has been exceeded, with every prospect of continuing to grow. Local outcome 3.J Meet targets for Increasing numbers of people 6,595 numbers More people are receiving individual (2007/08) 6,595 7,077 4893 7492 3 staying on in supported into careers advice - pupils SDS school employment At least maintain the Higher levels 716 number of people in of people (2007/08) 716 967 612 832 transition receiving 3 seeking other SDS individual careers advice jobs/careers Increase the % of 46% Upward trend positive outcomes from (66 start) 46% 43% 32.7% 53.2% by the end of

the Training for Work (2007/08) (66 start) (35 start) (64 start) (77 start) 3 this financial programme SDS year (2010/11) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome

3. 4

National Outcome 3 We are better educated, more skilled and more successful, renowned for our research and innovation

Local Outcome 3A People across the Highlands have access to the services they need

Intergenerational Craft Workshop: Lairg Since 2009 Highland Council has been commissioning and supporting partner organisations to deliver Learning Centre learning opportunities to adults across the Highland area. This has had a significant positive impact on participants’ lives and has linked with themes such as health and well-being, employability, supporting the local economy, community capacity building, supporting older people, intergenerational and family learning, and art, heritage and culture. In particular people in small remote rural communities have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to participate in learning delivered locally and tailored to their needs and interests. Some examples of this are: In Ullapool young people have received training to be able to help older people in their community to use new technologies. This has not only given the older people the confidence and skills to use technology, but has also broken down barriers between the generations (The Macphail Centre, Youth Development Officer, Serve Our Seniors). In Ardnamurchan there were 320 participants in taster classes including rural skills such as bee keeping, pig husbandry, cheese and yoghurt making and sheep foot care. These classes helped local people become more self sufficient. Similarly, a butchery course was delivered on the small isle of Eigg was well supported by local people (Strontian, Kilchoan & Mallaig Learning Centres). As a direct result of taking part in a First Steps to Success course on the Isle of Skye three of the seven participants gained employment. Similar success stories came from providers and participants from all the courses that were delivered. Significantly, the number of adult learners doubled last year from the previous year. Community based adult learning is helping meet national targets, whilst taking full account of the needs of people in varying communities. It is this social practice approach to learning, and the wider benefits participation brings, is which proving so successful and increasingly popular with individuals and groups across Highland.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers; Julie Simmons, The Highland Council; The Learning Centre Network; Community Organisations; Third Sector Organisations; West Highland College.

3. 5

Local Outcome 3.H Growth in the knowledge economy is supported by achieving full university title for UHI in 3 years.

Health research unit unveils state-of-the-art equipment

A £1 million investment in state-of-the-art equipment has completed the creation of a major health research laboratory, part of the new University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), in Inverness. The specialist unit is looking at the impact of lipids, commonly known as fats, on the progression of diseases, including diabetes, heart disorders and stroke, and is the first of its kind in Scotland. Part of the UHI Department of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Science, it is financed by a partnership involving Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the European Regional Development Fund, and the Scottish Funding Council.

A range of sophisticated mass spectrometers have recently been installed in the Lipidomics Research

Facility at the Centre for Health Science, Inverness. This instrumentation will enable the research team to accurately analyse a wide variety of fats in samples. Professor Whitfield said: “The mass spectrometers represent a significant and exciting research resource for UHI. They are essential to our work and will allow us to establish key experimental approaches to investigate the processes that lead to development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. We are already working closely with a number of academic research groups and we will continue to form collaborative partnerships with groups in universities, research centres and industry in Scotland, Europe and across the world.”

HIE’s head of research, Morven Cameron, said: “The growth of this sector requires an underpinning From left, Dr Jeff Howarth, UHI vice-principal for scientific capacity and UHI has been working hard to deliver this. Inverness, and the whole region, is set to research and enterprise; Dr Steven Dodsworth, HIE benefit from this development, putting the Highlands and Islands firmly on the Scottish map in terms of our head of life sciences; HIE head of research Morven pioneering scientific research. Cameron; Professor Phillip Whitfield, head of lipidomic “By working together, the university and private and public sectors have been able to create the right research, and UHI principal and vice-chancellor James conditions to attract leading academics, including the chair in diabetes, Professor Ian Megson, and Fraser. Professor Whitfield to the region. This investment in major equipment will be vital if our research ambitions in lipidomics are to be realised.” Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: UHI Department of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Science, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), European Regional Development Fund, Scottish Funding Council

3. 6

Local Outcome 3.H Growth in the knowledge economy is supported by achieving full university title for UHI in 3 years.

Health services partnership project wins Scottish award Left-to-right, Gaener Rodger, senior research fellow at the Centre for Rural health, Angela A project which explored the most effective ways for communities in rural Scotland to get involved in Constance, minister for skills and lifelong planning their future health services has won a national award and attracted international interest. learning, Christina West of NHS Highland, The Remote Service Futures Project was a joint Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) initiative between and project researcher Amy Nimegeer. the Centre for Rural Health, part of the new University of the Highlands and Islands, and NHS Highland, and looked at the challenges of providing services in remote and rural areas – including staff recruitment, and travelling times and costs for patients, families, carers and health professionals. It involved events such as community workshops, forums and road shows in communities in Argyll, Wester Ross and Lochaber to help people and service-providers liaise over local needs and future provision. It was headed by researcher and KTP associate Amy Nimegeer whose report is now informing the government, NHS and others on effective ways to liaise with people living in remote parts of the country. Amy, who last year won a KTP seminar series best presentation prize for the project, said it had attracted international interest from academics and governments, while a “toolkit” of best practice ideas has been trialled in Australia. She added: “The project has given local people and service-providers an appreciation of each other’s issues – such as needs, budgets and staff recruitment. Future services can only be effective if communities are given a say in the planning process and I believe our project has highlighted how difficult that can be in practice, but the result has been a set of very practical and even innovative methods to help the NHS and communities engage with each other." Christina West, Argyll and Bute Community Health Partnership’s clinical services manager for mid-Argyll, said: “This is a real accolade for the NHS Highland and UHI Centre for Rural Health partnership, and the first time an NHS partnership has achieved this award – recognising that by organisations working together we can identify new and innovative solutions.”

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Centre for Rural Health (part of the new University of the Highlands and Islands), NHS Highland, Remote Service Futures Project, University of Aberdeen.

3. 7 National Outcome 4 Our young people are successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens Tha na daoine òga againn nan luchd-ionnsachaidh soirbheachail, nan daoine misneachail, nan com- pàirtichean èifeachdach is nan saoranaich chunntachail

The Highland Council has 162 nursery units, 76 partner centres of which 18 are private providers, 182 Primary Schools, 29 Secondary Schools, and 3 Special Schools in Highland. Ten of the primary schools provide wraparound care including the Gaelic school in Inverness. There are 16,555 primary children, 14,592 secondary young people and 124 young people attending special schools.

In relation to National Performance measures (SCQF), attainment in Highland secondary schools compares well overall in relation to the national average and comparator authorities. *Performance at levels 4, 5 and 6 is above the national average. At all stages Level 3 awards are in line with the national average. At S4 performance has been broadly maintained over the past 5 years. Highland performs above the national average and comparator authorities in all but one of the key measures. The percentage of young people achieving five or more awards at levels 3, 4 and 5 is better than national averages. By the end of S5, performance at Higher levels is strong. Over the past 5 years performance at 3+ Highers has been at or above national levels. Over the same period the percentage of young people achieving 5 or more Highers has similarly been above national levels. By the end of S6, the percentage of young people achieving 1+, 3+ or 5+ Highers is at or above national averages.

A review of HMIE inspection reports for learning communities associated with secondary schools and Community Learning and Development indicates that most programmes are having a positive impact on the health, wellbeing and skills development of young people and adults in our learning communities. Increasingly schools place more emphasis on the wider achievement of young people. The number of young people engaged in recognised leadership and achievement awards has increased. The authority now needs to agree a definition of “achievement” which ensures that all learners are offered suitable learning pathways which recognise value and track their achievements.

A wide range of sustained initiatives has improved citizenship, enterprise and community capacity. Every school in Highland has achieved Health Promoting School status. Virtually all schools are registered for Eco-School Awards. A significant number of schools have met the Eco-Schools Scotland Green Flag award criteria. In all pre-school centres inspected by HMIE since August 2008 evaluations indicated that children’s experiences and arrangements to meet their needs are satisfactory or better. In all primary school inspections in the same period learners’ experiences have been satisfactory or better. In just over a third of primary schools learners’ experiences were very good. In the same period, the arrangements to meet learners’ needs were satisfactory or better in most schools. In all secondary schools inspected over the same period, learners’ experiences and arrangements to meet learners’ needs were satisfactory or better.

4. 1 Staff in secondary schools co-operate with a range of agencies including Inverness College and the Open University to enable learners to participate in a wide range of courses at Higher level and above. Both the Psychological Services and Support for Learners websites provide helpful information for young people and parents on a range of learning issues and gives links to other external agencies. Psychological Services provide effective advice and consultation to Post 16 service providers including adult social work services, voluntary organisations, colleges, young offenders’ institutions and training providers. This has provided effective guidance and a clear framework for this cohort of learners and reduces barriers for them and their families as they move from Children to Adult Services. The HMIE report published in March 2010 on Psychological Services commends the good practice in promoting emotional literacy which is integrated into partnership working.

We ensure the consistent application of the Highland Child Protection policy Guidelines and received an extremely positive report from HMIe as a result of the Child Protection Inspection in January 2010 which further enables young people to develop as responsible citizens and confident learners. Community Learning and Leisure staff work well with a wide range of partners to provide effective learning opportunities for young people and adults. Young people improve their confidence through participation in Active Schools activities, accredited award schemes and youth groups. Skills are developed through a range of programmes including those for traditional music, community sports leadership, sports groups and through engagement with the Highland Youth Voice initiative and the local Youth Forum. The Feis movement effectively promotes the Gaelic language and culture and supports young people well to develop their oral and music skills. Overall, those participating in these activities are more confident and self-assured. Accreditation needs to be further developed to recognise and record young people’s achievement.

There are strong and effective local partnerships between Education, Culture and Sport, NHS Highland, Northern Constabulary and other service providers. The participation of young people in group discussions, extracurricular activities, projects and clubs has increased self- awareness, self-esteem and self-worth. Vulnerable young people continue to benefit from participation in physical activities provided by Active Schools coordinators and peripatetic staff. Partnership working is strengthening leadership at a local operational level and has the potential to support further development in capacity building at a strategic level. Good examples of these include Community Arts Projects, Young Carers support and Youth Groups. All schools have pupil councils and the majority of young people think pupil councils are good at getting improvements made. There is a need to build on this good practice to ensure that greater account is taken of children and young peoples’ views on the quality of learning and teaching. In order to ensure that young people take on leadership roles and contribute to aspects of decision making, the service has a range of effective means of engaging young people including consultation events and Youth Voice. The Youth Convener is a voting member of both the ECS Committee and Joint Committee for Children and Young People and contributes to the strategic decision making.

*1 Levels of attainment; 2 Level equivalent qualification 3 Standard Grade Foundation or Access 3; 4 Standard Grade General or Intermediate 1; 5 Standard grade Credit or Intermediate 2; 6 Higher; 7 Advanced Higher;

4. 2 Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress Progress Progress Progress at Status at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March at March at March Targets March 2011 end 2010/11 2008 2009 2010 Local outcome 4.C Increase the number of children Our communities take a and young people greater role in shaping taking part in their future recognised 767 1056 leadership and (2006/07) 1128 1995 1876 1641 3 (2010/11) achievement THC awards (Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Sports Leaders and Xcel) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 4.C

Local outcome 4.M Reduce the proportion of 13 data is data is Attitudes and behaviours and 15 year olds compiled 17% 13 yr compiled towards alcohol and self-reporting every 4 olds every 4 15% 13 yr olds other drugs are changed using alcohol in n/a years, Due Oct-11 (2006) years, * (2010) and those in need are the last week due THC due supported by better 2010/11 2010/11 prevention and SALSUS treatment services Reduce the data is data is proportion of 13 compiled 38% 15 yr compiled and 15 year olds every 4 olds every 4 self-reporting n/a years, Due Oct-11 36% 15 yr olds (2006) years, * using alcohol in due THC due the last week 2010/11 2010/11 SALSUS

4. 3 Reduce the data is data is proportion of 13 compiled 5% 13yr compiled and 15 year olds every 4 olds every 4 3% 13yr olds self-reporting n/a years, Due Oct-11 (2006) years, * (2010) smoking regularly due THC due each week 2010/11 2010/11 SALSUS Reduce the data is data is proportion of 13 compiled 12% 15yr compiled and 15 year olds every 4 olds every 4 self-reporting n/a years, Due Oct-11 10% 15 yr olds (2006) years, * smoking regularly due THC due each week 2010/11 2010/11 SALSUS Reduce the data is data is proportion of 13 compiled 3% 13 yr compiled and 15 year olds every 4 olds every 4 2% 13 yr olds self-reporting n/a years, Due Oct-11 (2006) years, * (2010) using drugs in the due THC due last month 2010/11 2010/11 SALSUS Reduce the data is data is proportion of 13 compiled 9% 15 yr compiled and 15 year olds every 4 olds every 4 self-reporting n/a years, Due Oct-11 7% 15 yr olds (2006) years, * using drugs in the due THC due last month 2010/11 2010/11 SALSUS Reduce the proportion and First data collected frequency of (2011) n/a n/a n/a 27.16% = 2010 and reported young people THC 2011 using alcohol (P7, S2 & S4) Reduce the proportion and First data collected frequency of (2011) n/a n/a n/a 9.64% = 2010 and reported young people THC 2011 smoking (P7, S2 & S4)

4. 4 Reduce the proportion and First data collected frequency of (2011) n/a n/a n/a 7.53% = 2010 and reported young people THC 2011 using drugs (P7, S2 & S4) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The statistics on which these outcomes are based is the nationally led Scottish Adolescent Lifestyle and Substance Use Survey (SALSUS). However, in Highland we have obtained local ‘snapshot’ data on children and young people’s lifestyles through the Highland Lifestyle Survey which is repeated every two years. The Highland Lifestyle Survey also includes the younger aged pupils in P7, SALSUS focuses on S2 and S4 only. The initial reports from the latest Highland survey completed early 2011 demonstrates that positive increases in pupils reporting not drinking any alcohol or smoking. There is a significant increase in S2 pupils who have reported not smoking. The question regarding substance misuse included the use of legal substances for recreational use.

The Highland Lifestyle Survey also examines whether children and young people felt their behaviour they were reporting on was typical. A great deal of consistency was highlighted with the 2009 survey where children and young people reported they are unsure what is typical alcohol consumption for them, this may indicate ambivalence towards drinking behaviour and substance misuse and consequently the possibility to change future drink patterns.

Local outcome 4.N Increase proportion of The impact of poverty pupils in primary No nationals 80.2% and disadvantage is school achieving Standard 82.00% (2006/07) 80.9% 80.9% 81.4% reduced or exceeding the agreed for * (2010/11) THC appropriate levels 2010/11 relevant to their stage in reading Increase proportion of pupils in primary No nationals 74.7% school achieving Standard 78.00% (2006/07) 74.8% 74.8% 74.4% or exceeding the agreed for * (2010/11) THC appropriate levels 2010/11 relevant to their stage in writing

4. 5 Increase proportion of pupils in primary No nationals 84.0% school achieving Standard 85.5% (2006/07) 83.9% 83.9% 84.9% or exceeding the agreed for * (2010/11) THC appropriate levels 2010/11 relevant to their stage in maths Increase proportion of pupils in No nationals secondary school 70.0% Standard 72.0% achieving or (2006/07) 69.8% 71.1% 72.4% agreed for * (2010/11) exceeding the THC 2010/11 appropriate levels relevant to their stage in reading Increase proportion of pupils in No nationals secondary school 60.0% Standard 62.0% achieving or (2006/07) 60.0% 61.4% 58.3% agreed for * (2010/11) exceeding the THC 2010/11 appropriate levels relevant to their stage in writing Increase proportion of pupils in No nationals secondary school 67.00% Standard 69.0% achieving or (2006/07) 67.40% 67.40% 67.50% agreed for * (2010/11) exceeding the THC 2010/11 appropriate levels relevant to their stage in maths Narrative on progress on Local Outcome

4. 6

National Outcome 4 Our young people are successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens.

Local Outcome 4 B People are, and feel safe from crime, disorder and danger

‘Safe Highlanders’ is an annual multi-agency led event where all Highland P7 pupils are invited to attend to ‘Becky’s Room’ experience active learning sets on key areas of safety. Safe Highlanders 2011 included a set on Internet Safety for the first time and the Highland E-Safety Group was tasked with designing a set that lasts 7 minutes only to convey key internet safety messages in a fun, engaging, dramatic and hard hitting way. Groups of roughly 10 pupils travel to each of the sets on a rotation basis at each of the events, the main Inverness event was hosted at Cameron Barracks. The set is repeated some 300 times across the 5 Safe Highlanders events. The learning outcomes are based on Curriculum for Excellence Health and Wellbeing and Technology Experiences and Outcomes, the style of the set and task is based on Co-operative Learning Techniques. Becky’s Room - All pupils in primary schools will have had education on Internet Safety using the Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre (CEOP) educational resources branded ‘Thinkuknow’. One particular resource called ‘Jigsaw’ is aimed at 8 – 11 year olds. The film clip uses a metaphor approach to show how ‘carefree’ online behaviour of people/strangers interacting online would appear if being enacted in an offline world. This story evolves as a stranger enters the young girl’s bedroom and rummages through her personal belongings, looks at the pictures and information about herself. This is information that is also available on her social networking site profile and the clip cleverly brings the two worlds together, highlighting ‘Becky’s Room’ the actions of online behaviour in a very physical way. The Safe Highlanders E-Safety set aimed to bring the Jigsaw clip to life in a dramatic way, thus building on the knowledge and skills developed through the resources they may have seen in school. The set re-created Becky’s bedroom with all the similar clues to her identity. Pupils are ushered in to the set where the facilitator asked them to spot (working in pairs) all of the personal information clues, such as school uniform, favourite bands, mobile number etc. The pupils will then be asked to shout out / point out what they have been able to spot. The pupils were then shown (and were shocked to see) that all the personal information they could see was actually all publicly available on Becky’s online profile which was shown to them on a large scale poster. Pupils were asked to consider what they had on their own profiles, online safety tips were presented and a hard copy provided to take away Evaluations showed that 97% of respondents will be more careful about putting their personal information online Internet Safety will now be a regular feature at Safe Highlander and the Becky’s Room format has been requested for use by other local Authorities across Scotland. Partner Organisations & Lead Officers NHS Highland; Fujitsu; The E-Safety set support by Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre (CEOP); Louise Jones, The Highland Council,

4. 7 Local Outcome 4.C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future.

Young people across Highland are supported to engage with a number of different achievement Cllr Bill Fernie with this year’s Gold Dof E Award programmes leading to various awards including Youth Achievement Awards, Dynamic Awards and The recipients. Duke of Edinburgh Award. This is reported in CP 1.2.1 “maintain the number of children and young people in recognised leadership and achievement awards”. In 2010-1, over 600 young people enrolled on a DofE programme through The Highland Council Operating Agency; 191 achieved their Bronze award, 33 their Silver and 11 their Gold award. Young people must complete sections on volunteering, skills development, physical activity as well as an expedition. This year has seen the largest number of Gold award enrolments. Supported by the Youth Services team, BT Openreach has set up a Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) centre for apprentices working with the organisation. Similarly Northern Constabulary has introduced DofE in to its cadet programme. Both organisations see the benefit of developing the soft skills and recognising the voluntary commitment of their employees. As a voluntary organisation supporting young people with additional support needs, Nansen Highland has set up a DofE group in the last year as a part of a pilot project on behalf of The Duke of Edinburgh Award Liam, 10 000th Dynamic Youth Award holder, being Scotland. One aim is to develop resources which can be used to support young people with additional presented with his certificate support needs to access DofE. Youth Achievement Award and Dynamic Youth Award training has been rolled out over the last 2 years to staff and volunteers within Highland Council and its partners; with over two hundred receiving training. In June 2011, the 10 000th Dynamic Youth Award in Scotland was presented to Liam Bell of Smithton & Culloden Youth Centre in Inverness. Liam and his friends gained their award for volunteering to decorate a part of the youth centre. Millennium Volunteer awards are widely used to recognise young people's voluntary commitment in their communities; with some young people clocking up over 200 hours volunteering. Louis Mackinnon, from Wick, was named Young Citizen of the Year for his voluntary work with Highland YouthVoice, Caithness Youth Forum, Wick Youth Club, as well as at Riverside Nursing Home and Wick High School.

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: The Duke of Edinburgh Award; Youth Scotland; ASDAN; Youth Highland; schools; Youth clubs & organisations; Youth Services team; Northern Constabulary; BT Openreach; Nansen Highland; Rebecca Raynes, The Highland Council

4. 8

Local Outcome 4 M The impact of poverty and disadvantage is reduced

Using GLOW with their Co-Create project, Fèis Rois brought together traditional artists, pupils, and Traditional and Gaelic arts and language with teaching professionals to develop collaborative working, share good practise and provide a valuable Fèis Rois learning experience using the traditional arts (storytelling, music, song and dance) and new media and technology.

Pupils were drawn from two Primary Schools, one academy, a centre for autistic young people and an education centre for disengaged learners in Highland and Aberdeenshire. The project was tailored to the specific needs in each of the Local Authority areas. The Primary Schools worked with a story teller learning traditional tales and storytelling techniques and with this knowledge they worked with two traditional musicians to compose and write their own songs. The Education Centres worked with a song writer and musician to learn about different instruments, rhythms and styles of music Class topics and areas of interest were used as inspiration for the songs. The second part of the project involved a three day traditional festival involving around 50 academy pupils and at the end of the third day the Primary School pupils came to the academy to showcase all the material they had created. All the songs written by the pupils were recorded and made into a cd as part of a teaching resources pack and dvd. Throughout the project, pupils were exposed to traditional Scottish culture, and had the opportunity to enjoy performances by professional artists and performers, while developing new skills, creating and performing their own work for others. Throughout the project GLOW was used to post events, put up sound recordings, upload photographs, song words, film footage and general updates. Rachael Duff, Formal Education Portfolio Manager for Fèis Rois said “We found GLOW to be a very exciting tool. This project has been a brilliant experience for Fèis Rois and we are really looking forward to using GLOW further in our education work Comments from the pupils include, “I can recognise how the features of spoken language can help in communication, and I can use what I learn.” And “Representing my class, school and wider community encourages my self-worth and confidence and allows me to contribute and participate in society.” The project supports implementation of Curriculum for Excellence – it has a particular focus on the Expressive Arts, with Health and Wellbeing and Literacy experiences and outcomes. Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Jim Henderson, Highland Council; Aberdeenshire Council; Rachel Duff, Fèis Rois; Learning and Teaching Scotland; the Creative Scotland National Lottery Fund.

4. 9

Local Outcome 4.C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future.

The Angus Puff Story A P4 Castle Bay pupil reading Angus Puff Story The Story of Angus Puff the Fire Dragon is a fire safety story book aimed at children aged between 5 and 8 (primary 1 – 3) promoting fire safety awareness. The Angus Puff project has involved partnership work with the Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers, the Highland Council, Castlebay Primary School and The Big Lottery Fund which supported financially the initiative. The project engaged with and encouraged the participation of young people with the resulting resource being used to educate and promote the health and safety of young people throughout the wider community. The character and the story were developed by Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers as part of their art activities with the support of the Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service. With the story developed the young carers were consulted and a final draft approved. This was then put into a draft book form with illustrations and layout based on a wish list compiled by the young carers. Once feedback was gathered from the young carers and changes made the final approved version was printed and Angus Puff was born. Castlebay Primary School Pupils in Barra translated the text into Gaelic which allowed the book to be distributed to Gaelic medium units throughout the Highlands and Islands. The Highland Council distributed the story to Highland schools through educational intranet facility GLOW. Hard copies of the book were also sent out directly to schools. Development of Angus Puff has encouraged the participation of young people who have been involved at every stage of development of this educational resource. This approach has allowed young people to take a greater role in ensuring their safety in relation to fire safety awareness.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service; Kirsty Macfarlane, Louise Jones, The Highland Council; Caroline Dear, Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers.

4. 10 National Outcome 5 Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed Tha an toiseach tòiseachaidh as fheàrr sa bheatha seo aig a’ chloinn againn is tha iad deiseil gus soirbheachadh

Agencies in Highland are addressing this in a co-ordinated and integrated manner, in particular through: • Delivering the objectives of the Scottish Government and CoSLA’s Early Years Framework • Implementation of Getting it right for every child • Coordinating all relevant planning within Highland’s Integrated Children’s Plan, For Highland’s Children 3 (FHC3). Objectives in FHC3 for implementing the Early Years Framework include: • Enhancement of wraparound care. • Increased hours for early education. • Further strengthening of Surestart services for vulnerable young children. This very much accords with the GIRFEC model, and indeed the Highland pathfinder experience, and the requirements of the national roll- out of GIRFEC, is described as fundamental to implementation of the Framework. Many of the key themes are integral to integrated children’s services planning in Highland: • Effective early interventions to address need. • Supporting families and sustaining community based services. • Delivering improved opportunities for play. • Reducing the need for referrals to targeted services through strengthening universal services. • Improving access to integrated pre-school and childcare services. • Improving local partnerships. Getting it right for every child ensures the highest standards of front-line joint working to provide the best possible outcomes for children & families. While the implementation of GIRFEC impacts on all of Highland’s children, there is an obvious and particular focus on the youngest and the most vulnerable. GIRFEC involves a tiered approach, with effective intervention in universal services to identify needs as quickly as possible, and provide responses that prevents needs and concerns from escalating. It provides an effective linkage between midwives and health visitors, and then with Pre-school, Primary Schools and School Nurses. It also provides an increased and more intensive level of assessment, planning and response for those children with higher level and more complex needs. This seeks to provide enhanced support for children at home, as part of a greater emphasis on community based supports, and a focus on improved outcomes for all children who may be vulnerable.

5. 1 Improved transition management for children and young people of all ages is being addressed and a number of protocols are being developed/updated particularly addressing GIRFEC principles for the key times of change through children’s early years. These protocols address the challenges faced by children in vulnerable groups, including those with additional support needs, disability or illness.

Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress Status at Progress at Progress at Progress at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March end Targets March 2008 March 2010 March 2011 2009 2010/11 Local outcome 5.O Reduce the number of Low Birth Weight 5.7% (2004/05) No target – The cycle of deprivation Babies Proportion 5.3% (2005/06) 5.4% - 4.8% 5.9% 4.7% seeking year is broken through of low birth weight 4.7%(2006/07) (Revised) (Revised) (Provisional) (Provisional) 3 on year intervention in early singleton babies NHSH reduction years Reduce the 23.1% (2004/05) proportion of 24.6% (2005/06) 23.8% 22% 22.8% 19.8% 20.00%

women smoking in 24.2% (2006/07) (Revised) (Provisional) (Provisional) 3 (2010/11) early pregnancy NHSH Increase the % of * exclusively breast- 34.2% (2007/08) 34.2% 34% 33.2% Data not 36% fed children at 6-8 (Revised) (Revised) (Revised) (Revised) available * (In 2010/11) weeks by 2010/11 NHSH until Oct (Revised) 2011 Increase the number of vulnerable under 4 Number of 0-3yr 1100 1459 year olds accessing 1028 (2010/11) Number of 1853 2001 1667 funded targeted (2006/07) 3 target under 0-3yr services, including THC review Supported Toddlers Groups Increase the number of 798 900 vulnerable families Number of 1186 (2010/11) accessing funded families Number of 1499 1714 1560 3 target under targeted services, (2006/07) families review including THC Supported Toddlers

5. 2 Increase the number of parents from disadvantaged data Recommend areas and groups collection for removal data collection entering or moving THC - - system to data * system to be towards be collection not established employment by established viable removing childcare barriers. Increase the % of pupils in Primary 3 82.4% Data no 86.0% attaining the (2006/07) 83.9% 81.2% 78.9% longer * (2010/11) appropriate level in THC collected reading. Increase the % of pupils in Primary 3 86.0% Data no 88.0% attaining the (2006/07) 86.1% 84.3% 82.5% longer * (2010/11) appropriate level in THC collected writing. Increase the % of pupils in Primary 3 96.7% Data no 96.7% attaining the (2006/07) 97.7% 96.5% 95.7% longer * (2010/11) appropriate level in THC collected maths. Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 5.O – Reduce the number of low birth weight babies proportion of low birth weight singleton babies – The current data is provisional but illustrates a fluctuating picture year on year 5.O - Reduce the proportion of women smoking in early pregnancy – the current data is provisional but demonstrates achievement slightly above target 5.O - Increase the % of exclusively breastfed children at 6-8 weeks by 2010/11 - All the data for this target has been revised to now show annual data which has been provided by ISD. This was not previously available for NHS Highland and provisional quarterly data had been used instead. The target for 2010/11 has been revised to show 36%

5. 3

National Outcomes: 5 - Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed (contributing to NO 4; 9)

Local Outcomes: 5A - People across the Highlands have access to the services they need (contributing to LO M) Alcohol Brief Interventions & Underage Drinkers As a development of training requirements for reducing alcohol consumption, the Health Improvement Team has developed a skills development session on delivering alcohol brief interventions to under-age drinkers. The sessions are multi-disciplinary and targeted at NHS, local authority and voluntary sector staff working directly with vulnerable young people involved in under-age drinking. The content of the training is adapted from Health Scotland briefing papers and supplemented with existing evidence on the effectiveness of brief interventions and motivational interviewing with young people. Findings from the Scottish Adolescent Lifestyle & Substance Misuse Survey (SALSUS) have been used to highlight the alcohol related issues for 13 and 15 year olds in Highland involved in underage drinking. Information on the types of alcohol drunk, where they access it, what they like about it, what they don’t like about it, how much they pay, differences in attitudes between boys and girls and 13 year olds in comparison to 15 year olds is used in conjunction with brief intervention delivery skills to equip workers with the knowledge and skills required to enhance the motivation of under-age drinkers to change their behaviour. The sessions have been piloted and agreement has been reached with Highland Council to roll out the sessions to social workers, youth justice workers, youth workers and teachers alongside school nurses, paediatric nurses, child psychologists and voluntary sector workers from organisations such as Action for Children. The benefits of the sessions are they encourage sharing of skills and experience along with collaborative practice to address common issues. The multi-disciplinary nature of the sessions also contributes to the shared agenda of developing integrated services for children and adults. The main benefit is that workers leave sessions more confident that they have strengthened their skills for having more meaningful and structured conversations with those under 18 that can influence change and impact on levels of alcohol related harm.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Debbie Stewart, NHS Highland; Louise Jones, Highland Council; Grahame Cooper, Action for Children.

5. 4

Local Outcomes 5M: Attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol and other drugs are changed and those in need are supported by better prevention and treatment services

Operation Youth Advantage Course Operation Youth Advantage Students undertaking water sport activities Operation Youth Advantage (OYA+) is a long established five day residential course, aimed at 16-18 year olds, both male and female, either with a history of minor offending, on the periphery of offending behaviour, or at risk of social exclusion. The course is a nationally run version under the auspices of the Social Justice Foundation (SJF), a Scottish Government body. The course is a partnership initiative set up between the Army, Northern Constabulary and Grampian Police engaging partners such as the Highland Council Social Work and Education, Culture and Sport Service, Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and youth agencies. Community engagement is achieved by encouraging participants to attend from all parts of the Force area, via local agency contacts and involvement of family. The Operation Youth Advantage Course provides a safe and secure environment for young people to learn Operation Youth Advantage Students and develop individual personal and interpersonal skills, and confidence, through team based activities. The course has been successfully run in this year with the newly created Northern Constabulary Outreach Activity Assessment Process which was used to evaluate the effect on the youths taking part. The evaluation process has been recognised as a benchmark for good practice by the SJF and Glasgow University researchers and is to be adopted for use for all OYA+ courses across Scotland.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Major John Stevenson, Army Insight Courses Team; PC Rosanna MacSween, Northern Constabulary; Sergeant Averil Duncan,Grampian Police.

5. 5 National Outcome 6 We live longer, healthier lives Tha sinn beò nas fhaide is nas fhallaine

A great deal of progress has been made over the past year in relation to achieving this outcome. Programmes of work on lifestyle issues such as smoking and healthy weight of children have been consolidated and strengthened to produce positive outcomes for many people in Highland. Getting families engaged in programmes to support healthy weight in our young people has been challenging and great efforts have been made by staff to promote and deliver initiatives that aim to support the kind of lifestyle changes required to improve diet and physical activity levels in children and families across Highland. It must be noted that these lifestyle changes need to be supported by improvements in the wider determinants of health that affect people’s ability to make positive lifestyle choices, including income, housing and employment and work to support individuals, families and communities must be underpinned by the broader range of initiatives and services outlined elsewhere in the SOA.

We have come a long way in developing support for our older population and particularly for those living with long term conditions, including people with dementia. Anticipatory care planning for people with complex conditions at high risk of hospital admission is now well established and has resulted in a significant reduction in time spent in hospital for vulnerable groups. Work to progress clinical pathways for the management of long term conditions is well underway and initiatives to reduce the number of drugs prescribed for some older people have resulted in improved quality of care and reduced adverse events in these frail people. To help people manage their own long term conditions, partnerships have been established with voluntary organisations to provide appropriate information and such material has been tested on volunteer patients.

While the health of the overall population in Highland has improved, it is important to note that inequalities in health have worsened over the last ten years. Health inequalities across Highland are similar to those across Scotland with a 16 year gap in life expectancy between the most affluent and the poorest areas. The worst off in society are likely to suffer most from the economic climate and consequent changes in public sector services, unless we explicitly consider, and act on, the impact of those changes on them. Even then, reducing inequalities in health is difficult, as to be effective, actions need to be sustainable, requiring long-term commitment from all partners to work together on a shared agenda, with the local communities at the centre

We are now living in a time of major change and financial constraint, increasing the challenge of delivering ever more support for our increasingly older population and also absorbing new developments. Locally, NHS Highland and the Highland Council are working towards integrating their services, providing enormous opportunities to redesign our services to provide truly holistic and patient-centred health and social care for our population, and making improving health equity a priority strategic aim.

6. 1 Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at Status at 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 end 2010/11 targets Local outcome 6.K Through smoking cessation services, 1345 Healthy life support 8% of (amended 3606 n/a expectancy is smoking population baseline By 2010 Base-line to be improved especially in successfully n/a from 1127 2546 4302 3 (Revised) established for the most quitting (at one quits for NHSH disadvantaged month post quit) over Highland the period 2008/09- Area) 2010/11. Achieve agreed completion rates for child healthy weight 25 25 448 programme by cumulative 319 cumulative (Includes the 2010/11 (amended) n/a n/a 3 2010/11 (HC area X and Mini X (No of children (2009/10) (Revised) only) Programmes) completing child NHSH healthy weight programme) Increase the average cardiovascular fitness of boys in 34 primary 7 Average 35 (2006/07) 37 37 33 37 number of shuttle 3 (2010/11) THC runs over set period in controlled conditions Increase the average cardiovascular fitness of girls in 28 primary 7 Average 29 (2006/07) 28 31 32 29 number of shuttle 3 (2010/11) THC runs over set period in controlled conditions

6. 2 Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 6K – Child Healthy Weight – The target for child healthy weight was set in 2009/10 with a new target of 319 by 2010/11. There has been positive progress in 2010/11 with the new target exceeded. Reduce occupied Local outcome 6.L bed day rate per

1,000 as a result of 3520 The health and an emergency 3412 3415 3227 5% reduction (Revised) 3027 independence of admission for (Revised) (Revised) (Revised) 3 = 3344 (2004/05) older people is patients aged 65 and NHSH maximised over by 10% from 2004/05. Reduce admissions rates per 100,000 for 9044 9206 8548 8182 long term conditions (Revised) 8331 5% reduction (Revised) (Revised) (Revised) 3 from 2006/07 to (2006/07) = 8592 2010/11. NHSH 600 new houses built 600 150 152 for older people or 119 144 (between (2006/07) 127 (542 cum) people with (246 cum) (390 cum) = 2007/8 & THC 101 on site disabilities 2010/11) Increase the number of patients with early 1925 data not 1831 diagnosis and (2006/07) counted this 1491 1611 1841 3 (2010/11) management of a NHSH year (Revised) dementia by Mar-11. Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 6L – Reduce occupied bed day rate per 1000 as a result of emergency admissions for patients aged 65+ and over, by 10% from 2004/05 . These figures have all been revised to show the NHS Highland data now excluding Argyll and Bute data which had previously been included. There has been positive progress in 2010/11 with the new 2010/11 target exceeded. 6L – Reduce admission rates per 100,000 for long term conditions from 2006/07 to 2010/11 – These figures have all been revised to show the NHS Highland data now excluding Argyll and Bute data which had previously been included. There has been positive progress in 2010/11 with the new 2010/11 target exceeded.. 6L – Increase the number of patients with early diagnosis and management of a dementia by March 2011. The target for 2010/11 has been revised to now show 1831. There has been positive progress in 2010/11 with the new target exceeded.

6. 3

National Outcomes 6 We live longer, healthier lives (contributing to NO 11)

Local Outcome 6.L The health and independence of older people is maximised

Glints of Gold Floral Art demonstration at Glints of Gold, Spectrum Centre, Inverness Glints of Gold is a social group aimed at people aged 50 and over that has been meeting weekly at the Spectrum Centre, Inverness since October 2010; set up and facilitated by the Council’s INBS-based Community Development Officer. Such is its popularity that it has continued to run over the traditional Easter and summer holidays.

The venue itself is sited adjacent to the City’s bus station, offering easy access, with those aged over 60, able to travel there using their concessionary bus passes.

105 people are registered with approximately 25 attending weekly. Lunch costing £3 lunch has been negotiated with the community centre’s café franchise and is followed by a series of ‘Talks@2’. The group encourages people to be comfortable using community facilities, engenders a caring for each other philosophy, as new members are taken under the wing of existing members. People are introduced to a range of self-care topics, such as Community and Fire Safety, Equalities and Diversity, T’ai Chi and Keep- Fit, Laughter Therapy and information about services offered by Age Scotland and Alzheimers Scotland.

Additional benefits are also derived from talks from Libraries staff, Trading Standards officers, the Income Maximisation Team, the Adult Protection Development Officer, Adult Literacy staff, etc. Spin-off outcomes have included ITC classes (arranged through Adult Literacy staff.

A recent visit to the Highland Archive centre also took place and group members were encouraged to visit on their own to research family history.

The intention is for the group to self-manage the recruitment of new members, programme planning and booking of speakers, thus becoming independent of direct Council input

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: Kate Maclean, Highland Council; a range of public and voluntary sector organisations

6. 4 Local Outcome 6 A people across the Highlands have access to the services they need; (contributing to LO K;N)

Bowel Cancer Screening Programme – reducing health inequalities Bowel cancer is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed cancer in Scotland and among the leading causes of cancer deaths for both men and women. A screening programme for bowel cancer was put in place in 2009 with the aim of detecting early stage disease in otherwise well men and women aged 50-74. Uptake of screening is known to vary by gender (uptake is lower among men than among women) and deprivation.

To encourage men to take part, screening has been discussed at public meetings organised by Men’s Health Highland and information made available. An article to raise awareness of, and encourage participation in, bowel screening featured in a free newsletter which is distributed to households within one of Highland’s most deprived communities, and was discussed at a health fair within the community. In addition, as a consequence of how eligible individuals are identified to take part in screening, some homeless people and members of the Gypsy/Traveller community may not receive invitations.

To enable homeless people and members of the Gypsy/Traveller community to take part, NHS Highland has developed procedures to enable individuals to be screened. In partnership with local authority and voluntary sector colleagues, opportunities to raise awareness of bowel screening among eligible individuals in these groups are being explored.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Dr Rob Henderson, NHS Highland; The Highland Council

6. 5

Local Outcomes: 6.L The health and independence of older people is maximised (contributing to LO C)

Joint Community Care Plan 2010/13 Early in 2011, the Highland Community Care Partnership published its Joint Community Care Plan for 2010/13. The Plan is a blue-print for how community care services will be delivered and sets the priorities for Community care in Highland for the next few years. We know that we need to do things differently. Our older population is growing rapidly. It also looks likely that numbers of people needing assistance because of a learning disability, autism or mental health problem will continue to rise. Combine these increases in demand with a financial future where real cuts in public spending seem certain and it is clear to see the challenges that Community Care services face. Given the demographic and financial factors which face Community Care there has been a strong desire by policy-makers in Highland to develop a new and effective approach to meeting future challenges and to delivering the outcomes people seek. We are keen to ensure that we engage the people who use our services, their carers and other stakeholders as active participants in meeting the challenges which lie ahead. Joint Community Care Plan 2010/13 In summer 2009, the Highland Community Care Forum (HCCF) carried out an initial consultation on the Consultation Summary Partners’ behalf. Staff talked to a cross-section of nearly 400 community care users and their carers with discussions focusing on what being independent meant, what people had found helpful or difficult in maintaining their independence and what changes or improvements would help them remain at home. This work has helped develop our approach to meeting the future needs of Community Care groups. We used information gathered in the initial consultation to inform a further consultation undertaken between April-June 2010. To assist us, HCCF carried out a second, more extensive consultation to include those groups we know to be ‘harder to reach’. Interviews took place with over 600 people from the range of service user, carer and equalities groups. HCCF’s involvement provided a significant source of evidence for the Plan and underlines the importance of making sure that ‘harder to reach’ people are properly supported to have a voice. In addition to the extensive consultation led by HCCF, it was pleasing that the Partners received over 300 returned consultation questionnaires, hard copy and on-line. Further community engagement included Council and NHS officers attending meetings across Highland of Ward Forums and Community Councils to discuss the Plan as it was being developed and to listen to feedback. We also engaged with a range of stakeholders in three major planned events.

Partner Organisations and Lead Officers: Janet Spence, Highland Council; Sheena Munro ,HCCF; NHS Highland

6. 6

Local Outcome 6.E - Our Natural Heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health and learning benefits. (contributing to LO6K )

The Guffalo at Culloden Avenue – © The Highland Council Countryside Rangers In 2010/11 Scottish Natural Heritage brought their Simple Pleasures Easily Found campaign to Inverness. The campaign encourages people in Scotland to get outdoors more often to enjoy nature. It was prompted by the results of the Scottish Recreation Survey, which shows that more than half (53%) of all Scottish households visit the great outdoors less than once a week. The campaign is targeted at Scotland’s largest cities, particularly areas where people visit the outdoors least often. Getting outdoors needn't be a big adventure with lots of planning or serious equipment. We want to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors right on your doorstep with simple, doable, achievable and desirable activities that do not need any specialist equipment.

Getting outside has both physical and mental health benefits and this campaign helps to deliver National Outcome 6 and Local Outcomes 6.E and 6.K. Further information on the campaign can be found at: www.snh.gov.uk/simplepleasures Cover of the Inverness Simple Pleasures Leaflet SNH worked closely with the Highland Council Access Officers and Countryside Rangers as well as © Scottish Natural Heritage British Waterways Scotland and Merkinch Local Nature Reserve to identify and publicise a series of trails around Inverness. A new, free leaflet was produced showing the four easy-to-follow routes - River Ness and Islands, Merkinch Local Nature Reserve and the Caledonian Canal, Smithton Woods and Culloden Avenue and Castle Heather Park. The leaflet and the wider campaign also gives ideas for simple, free activities to enjoy along the way, like playing pooh sticks, spotting otters and red squirrels and feeding the ducks.

17,000 copies of the leaflet were delivered to households throughout the city and to celebrate its launch the Highland Council Countryside Rangers ran a series of guided walks around each trail throughout April 2011. These proved really popular. An advertising campaign was also run to encourage people to get outside and enjoy their surroundings. Copies of the leaflet can be downloaded from www.snh.gov.uk/simplepleasures and specifically http://www.snh.gov.uk/publications-data-and- research/publications/search-the-catalogue/publication-detail/?id=1742

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Anne Murray,Christine Moodie, Scottish Natural Heritage; The Highland Council; British Waterways Trust Scotland;, Merkinch Local Nature Reserve.

6. 7

Local Outcome -C. Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future (contributing to LO L) Smoke Free Highland A campaign was launched on 11th May 2010 that aims to improve the health of the Highland population by discouraging people from smoking in their home and car.

The Smoke-Free Home and Smoke-Free Car Project is run by NHS Highland in partnership with The Highland Council and The Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service and involves smokers and non-smokers promising to make part or their entire home smoke-free for themselves, their family and friends. Children breathe in second-hand smoke at home more than any other place and by keeping the home and family car smoke-free you can reduce this exposure. A smoke-free home can also help smokers quit and can reduce the risk of children and young people becoming smokers. This initiative aims to encourage people who smoke to think about the impact that smoking has on the other members of their household and to sign up to one of four pledges (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Diamond) which would see them limiting where they smoke. All promises include never smoking in the car, Bronze includes smoking only in one room, silver includes only smoking in one room but only when the children are out and gold and diamond include never smoking in the house. At the highest level (Diamond), people make a commitment to undertake a quit attempt. To date, there have been 150 pledges 92 of these being a diamond pledge.

As part of NHS Highland’s Smoke-Free Home and Smoke-Free Car Project a poster campaign was held for schools in Highland challenging pupils from Primary 6 and 7 to create a poster that will encourage families to protect themselves from the dangers of second-hand smoke by keeping a smoke-free home and car.

Over 30 entries were received from primary schools throughout Highland. Posters were judged on creativity, originality and ability to promote the smoke-free message to primary school children. The winner was from Staffin Primary School in Skye.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Susan Birse, NHS Highland; Louise Jones, Highland Council; Cathy Way. Highlands and Islands Fire & Rescue Service

6. 8 National Outcome 7 We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society Tha sinn air aghaidh a chur ris na neo-ionannachdan cudromach ann an comann-shòisealta na h-Alba

A key theme is financial inclusion within this national outcome. Money advice services continue to be provided through the CAB network, funded by Highland Council and through a small in-house service. Demand for these services remains high and the number of customers has risen during 2010/11 and the financial gain for individuals seeking assistance has increased. The value of benefit secured for customers from the advice services of the Council and partners rose in 2010/11 to £6.9m. To promote financial inclusion further a new Credit Union covering the Highlands has been introduced. There has been significant interest from staff in saving via a payroll deduction scheme which the Council has promoted to staff with the support of Trade Unions.

Employability programmes have had a more challenging environment to work within and a scheme specifically to support lone parents ended, however new approaches are being put in place by the employability team and while numbers are currently relatively low this reflect the focus on a more difficult to reach client group being the focus in 2011/12. Further information on unemployment is reported for national outcome 2. Compared to the rest of Scotland unemployment levels continue to be lower in Highland; however, people living in areas of concentrated multiple deprivation and young people are disproportionately affected by unemployment. Action to support young people is described below and is reported also against several other national outcomes.

There are strong and effective local partnerships between ECS, NHS Highland, and Northern Constabulary and with other service providers to have a positive impact on tackling inequalities and improving the wellbeing of vulnerable young people and their families.

A range of actions are in place including effective literacy support for hard to reach young people, including the children of travelling families through Adult Basic Education and Youth Work provision. A Highland English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Plan is in place and we have engaged bi-lingual Community Based Language Assistants to work in collaboration with teachers of ESOL. The impact of low cost leisure access scheme High Life continues to enable an increasing number of participants to access a growing range of facilities. The transfer of leisure services to an Arms Length Organisation (ALO) in October 2011 will not adversely impact on the Council’s inclusion agenda for sport and leisure through the High Life Leisure Card. The More Choices More Chances agenda for children and young people with additional needs ensures they are well supported to prepare for life after school. The Council has in place a robust ‘Skills for Work’ programme providing a more relevant curriculum for significant numbers of young people. This programme includes the involvement of a wide range of businesses, leading to more positive destinations. There has been significant progress in encouraging the up-take of free school meals with 84.3% of those entitled accessing free meals. This is now the highest figures since reporting was baseline in 2006/7 and shows steady progress though active promotion of the scheme by the School Catering Service

7. 1 Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at Status at 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 end 2010/11 targets Local outcome 7.A 100% of all Council public caller 61.3% People across the buildings are (Amended) Year on year 70.2% 80.15% 87.1% 91.1% Highlands have access accessible to (2006/07) 3 improvement to the services they people with THC need disabilities Sustain investment for improving Base-line to be access for people set 2008/09 Minimum 25 with disabilities on n/a 59 31 48 (2008/09) 3 per annum roads and THC footpaths (number of features added) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome

Local outcome 7.G Increase the number of 5% increase The impact of the customers reached (2010/11) recession is limited and with money advice 30,947 Propose new sustainable economic and welfare rights 37,800 Data baseline year growth is supported (via service (2006/07) 38,139 40,957 34,598 recording X of 2009/10 to delivery contracts THC issues match new between the recording Council and system independent advice providers) Increase the number of customers reached 479 At least with money advice (2006/07) 785 1424 1863 2074 3 maintain and welfare rights THC (2010/11) by the Highland Council

7. 2 Increase the financial benefit to customers from advice provided £4.392m (via service 5% increase (2006/07) £4.106m £3.443m £4.530m £6.593m delivery contracts 3 (2010/11) THC between the Council and independent advice providers) Increase the financial benefit to £334,826 At least customers from (2006/07) £0.1m £0.4m £1.4m £0.4m 3 maintain advice provided the THC (2010/11) Highland Council Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 7G – The target to increase the number of customers reached with money advice and welfare rights (via service delivery contracts between the Council and independent advice providers) has not been met although there has been an increase in uptake 2009/10 to 2010/11, however numbers remain below the baseline in 2006/7 from which targets are calculated. New baseline year proposed.

Local outcome 7.J Increase the number of lone 103 (amended) Programme More people are parents supported (2006/07) n/a 138 128 >328 complete C supported into into work THC employment Increase the number of lone 74 (amended) parents supported Programme (2006/07) n/a 37 56 >163 into work complete C THC experiencing a positive outcome Increase the number of 400 New Issues Data no Incapacity Benefit NHSH programme accessing longer Recipients n/a 337 Proposes to (2008/09) data at collected for * supported by remove NHSH present this indicator condition indicator management

7. 3 Still in need of more choices more chances. (definition to be confirmed by SDS) 89% this replace (2008/09) n/a 89% 86.7% Dec-11 TBC indicator ‘Reduce * SDS the number of young people not in employment, education, or training’ Increase the % of care leavers in baseline to be education, training developed Due target TBC as n/a 22.6%* 19.7% and employment (2008/09) Oct-11 * per baseline (measured @ 18 THC years) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 7J – Increase the number of incapacity benefit recipients supported by Condition Management. - The Condition Management Team has been disbanded and NHS are no longer able to collect data for this indicator. NHS Highland proposes to remove this indicator.

*08/09 Data validated and amended after report submission Local outcome 7.K Increase in Highlife budget card 3913 New Healthy life expectancy holders (for 4500 (2006/07) 3558 4651 5193 indicators in is improved especially discounted access c (2010/11) THC place below for the most to Council facilities) disadvantaged The total Indicator membership in segmented Highland Council 46,472 target to be run and supported (2009/10) n/a n/a 46,472 50,552 3 agreed with leisure centres ( THC new Leisure Arms Length Organisation

7. 4 The total of Indicator membership in segmented Highland Council 38,589 target to be run and supported (2009/10) n/a n/a 38,589 39,694 3 agreed with leisure centres THC new Leisure (including Arms Length swimming pools) Organisation Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 7.K New indicators have been put in place to monitor membership Local outcome 7.N Increase the % of Looked After The impact of poverty Children ceasing to (66.7% 92.3% 62.5% 35.9% and disadvantage is be looked after (14 out of 21) 48.5% 69.0% (12 out of (15 out of (14 out reduced ‘away from home’, (2006/07) (16 out of 33) = (2010/11) 13) 24) of 39) attaining SCQF THC level 3 in at least one subject Increase the % of Looked After 61.00% Children ceasing to 57.10% 60.50% 82.4% 75.8% (11 out of 18) 63.0% be looked after at (16 out of (23 out of (14 out of (25 out of (2006/07) = (2010/11) home, attaining 28) 38) 17) THC 33) SCQF level 3 in at least one subject Achieve 75% 2007/08 £1.041M on £4.074m 75% leverage leverage from other £5.876m (3 spend (three over whole sources for the year Programme n/a £1.194M years) = programme Fairer Scotland programme) complete C (87% 77% (£4.4m) Fund (2008/09) leverage) leverage (2010/11) THC Increase 1828 (850 ALN opportunities for 2241* 2418* 2269 2439 978 ESOL) 2011 Adult Literacy (1317 ESOL (1006 ESOL (1013ESOL (1285 ESOL (2006/07) 3 (2010/11) Learners and take 924 ALN) 1412 ALN) 1256 ALN) 1154 ALN) THC up by 10% Energy efficiency 1125 Amend: measures to 4,500 1849 Further 3375 1849 2121 4251 5251 Council houses (2007/08) 3 (2010/11) THC

7. 5 At least maintain At least 77.60% uptake of free 78.6% maintain (2006/07) 78.9% 80.3% 84.3% schools meals (amended) 3 77.6% THC (2010/11) Reduce the % of homeless cases reassessed as 7.0% homeless or 4.5% (2010/11) potentially amended 4.5% 5.3% n/a 4.4% Target under homeless within 12 (2008/9) (amended) (amended) 3 review as SPI months of previous THC has changed case being closed (amended SPI in 2008/9) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome * Amended data to reflect ALN & ESOL for all years

7. 6

National Outcome 7 - We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society (contributing to NO 6) Local Outcome C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future (contributing to LO 7K)

Walking group, getting ready to go Healthy Weight Well North is an anticipatory care project based in South Skye and Lochalsh. The project took a community led health approach and has supported local partnership work to increase opportunities for activities which support healthy eating and physical activity. It commenced in 2010, with a local needs assessment. A participatory appraisal approach gathered the views of local residents in 4 communities in South Skye and Lochalsh on the development of interventions, both existing and new, to support individuals and families achieve a healthy weight. The project is now working with local groups and organisations to establish: Regular health walks, in conjunction with Step it Up Highland; cooking with confidence sessions delivered by the local West Highland College UHI; food and activity sessions for Family First, Kyleakin Connections, Rag Tag n Textile service users and a local pony club; supporting transport for an Lunch Club; supporting vegetable growing activities in 2 community gardens; supporting the networking role of Skye and Lochalsh Community Volunteer Organisation.

A communication network of organisations including Highland Council Planning and Development services local Sleat Polytunnel community councils, local community development trusts, voluntary groups e.g. Chest Heart and Stroke association, Kyle Development Group, and The Crofters Commission disseminate information and progress to their members. Access to activities is aimed at those most at risk of health inequalities including those classed as disadvantaged or marginalised and attendance can be through, invitation, peer support, self referral or via Medical Practices. Staff and individuals from organisations engaged with the network have been provided with training for improving skills in motivational interviewing and lifestyle behaviour change, and Walk Leader training. Healthy Weight Well North received funding from the Scottish Government as part of the Keep Well Agenda for anticipatory care, and was one of 6 Well North projects managed by the North of Scotland Public Health Network. All aimed to improve the health of people experiencing health inequalities in remote and rural areas of Scotland. The outcomes and learning from Healthy Weight Well North South Skye and Lochalsh are to be used in planning for mainstreaming of the Keep Well Agenda across the Highland region using a community development approach.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Sarah Bowyer, NHS Highland;. Step it Up Highland; Paths for All; West Highland College; UHI; Chrisanne MacDonald, Skye and Lochalsh Council for Voluntary Organisations.

7. 7 Local Outcome 7 K Healthy life expectancy is improved especially for the most disadvantaged (contributing to LO M) Homeless Active Referral Scheme Members of the Active Referral Scheme The Homeless Active Referral Scheme is an excellent example of responsive partnership working, followed by Football Team. consistent community support. It was a featured example of good practice at the 2010 Public Health Conference, and has been selected as a World Health Organisation Exemplar Project (WP4: Identifying Good Practice Elements And Guidance To Promote Physical Activity In Socially Disadvantaged Groups).

NHS Highland and Highland Homeless Trust, along with Inverness Leisure and support from The Highland Council, developed a short-term project with the aim of enabling the homeless community to benefit from Active Referral and anticipatory care. This hard to reach group has complex healthcare needs. Recognising the need for additional support to access this opportunity, the scheme provides support-worker input to assist referral, attendance and maintenance of physical activity (including exit strategies). Successes of the initiative were quickly evident; and the scheme has significantly overachieved against targets that are linked to local and national health improvement and social inclusion objectives. Whilst significant challenges remain in engaging this marginalised community, the proportion of successful uptake of referrals has grown from around 4% before Members of the Active Referral Scheme the scheme to 44% in the first year. The scheme continues to provide many opportunities for supporting soft Angling Group. outcomes in addition to direct health gains and enhanced onward referral.

A major strength of the scheme is the appropriate variety of activities and the provision of group sessions. For some, substance use is a significant barrier. Several participants specifically abstain on the days of activities in order to participate, demonstrating significant steps forward in personal organisation and fulfilling personal commitments. Some remarkable achievements have been made by participants, and further evaluative reports are available.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Dr Paul Monaghan, Highland Homeless Trust; Dan Jenkins NHS Highland; James Martin, Inverness Leisure; Iver Forsyth, The Highland Council.

7. 8

Local Outcome 7 A - People across the Highlands have access to the services they need (contributing to LO B, K; L; N)

Lets get on with it together Partnership A 5 year vision for supported self-management for Highland, Argyll and Bute

The term ‘Let’s Get On With It Together’ is derived from the motivation of different organisations within Highland, Argyll and Bute to work together in partnership. The Partnership was brought together in the summer of 2010 and has since then developed a 5 year vision which identifies its key objectives and outcomes. The Partnership has been constituted to develop and deliver a structured and sustainable self- management strategy for the Highland and Argyll & Bute Council areas. Underpinning the Partnership vision is a commitment to improve the lives of people living with long term conditions by offering a co-ordinated and innovative approach to self-management.

It is recognised that this strategy must be supported by a solid foundation of cultural change. This means changing the current culture within health and social care. It also means encouraging and supporting people living with long term conditions and their families. This will give individuals the confidence to change their own approach to self-management. This is a major underlying theme of this vision. The Partnership will focus on supporting this cultural change through education and a comprehensive publicity and awareness raising campaign across the area. The Partnership has been successful in securing 12 months funding to enable the appointment of a project co-ordinator. An individual was appointed to this post in March and has set about taking forward a number of work streams to achieve the Partnership objectives which include- establishing and formalising the partnership, promoting and facilitating communication between the partners, scoping and mapping available resources provided by the partners, raising awareness of the Partnership objectives.

This work clearly links to the national and local outcomes in its aim to improve the health and wellbeing of the people of the Highlands. Focus groups have been organised to commence effective community engagement in order to establish community feedback on the availability of supported self management for people living with long term conditions. Anticipated benefits expected are that there will be a reduction on use of acute services, dependency on services and that individuals will take more responsibility for management of their conditions Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Anne Austin,,Argyll & Bute Council; Glenn Heritage, Argyll Voluntary Action; Caron Jenkins, Arthritis Care; Shona Haslam, Asthma UK; Claire Fraser, British Heart Foundation; Michael Bews, British Lung Foundation; Margaret Somerville, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland; Anne Paris, Diabetes UK; Anita Tonberg, Epilepsy Scotland; Keith Walker, The Highland Council; Mark Charlton, Multiple Sclerosis Society; Sue Menzies/Maggie Clark, NHS Highland, Andrew MacLean, Partnerships for Well Being; Maddy Halliday, Stroke Association; Fiona Skinner, University of the Highlands and Islands Millennium Institute; Hazel Allan, Volunteering Matters

7. 9

National Outcome 8 We have improved the life chances for children, young people and families at risk Tha sinn air na cothroman beatha aig clann, daoine òga agus teaghlaichean ann an cunnart a leasachadh

Highland has fully implemented Getting it right for every child. The consequent improving outcomes for children and families, and reduced bureaucracy for staff, have been documented in internal and external evaluations. It is also believed that Highland was the first partnership in Scotland that has implemented the new national child protection guidance. The most recent inspection by the Care Commission in late October 2010 awarded ‘very good’ grades to the adoption and fostering services. All but one of the authority’s children’s units has been refurbished, and a new purpose build will replace the final unit. The Council purchases residential care within Highland from several privately owned facilities. The development of these services has been helpful in keeping some looked after and accommodated children closer to their families and communities. In partnership with Barnardo’s, a new 5 place resource, targeted at achieving the return of children from residential schools out with Highland, opened in February 2011, and is now full to capacity. This unit, known as Northern Lights, has helped to further reduce the number of children and young people accommodated out with Highland. Further reductions in the number of looked after children out of authority remains a high priority for the service, and will be achieved through the continuing effective application of GIRFEC interventions and planning. While the total number of looked after children has not increased in the manner of other parts of the country, we have not satisfactorily addressed the balance of children who are supported at home, and this also continues to be a priority. There has been a continuing high profile on the education of looked after children, and on providing support into stable housing, employment or further training.

8. 1 Progress at March 2011 on Local Outcomes

Progress Progress Progress Progress at Status at end 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March at March at March March 2010 2010/11 targets 2008 2009 2010 Local Outcome 8.A Increase the proportion of young (91%) People across the people (16-24 year 95.0% (2006/07) 95% 88.5% 89.9% 91.4% Highlands have olds) who sustain a = (2010/11) THC access to the tenancy for more services they need than 6 months. Narrative on progress on Local Outcome

Local Outcome 8.O Maintain good or (2010) 5 very good grading in gradings Last report June The cycle of Inspection reports of Good of 'very Good or Very 2006 Good n/a n/a deprivation is broken the Child Protection (Jun-08) good' (5) 3 Good THC through intervention inspection reports and one in early years 'good' (4) Increase the n/a proportion of looked 45.0% (2008/09) 36.7% 35.4% 37.2% 36.0% after children at = (2010/11) THC home Reduce the number Reported in HC 38 of LAC away from Annual (2006/07) 59 99 89 82 Home with 3-5 X Performance THC Placements Report Reduce the number Reported in HC 15 of LAC away from Annual (2006/07) 38 59 52 46 Home with 6 or X Performance THC more Placements Report Reduce the number Reported in HC 57 of LAC looked after Annual (2006/07) 68 62 70 73 - 1 year to under 2 X Performance THC years Report Reduce the number 91 99 112 97 103 X Reported in HC

8. 2 of LAC looked after (2006/07) Annual - 2 years to under 5 THC Performance years Report Reported in HC Reduce the number 62 Annual of LAC looked after (2006/07) 57 45 36 41 3 Performance - 5 or more years THC Report Reduce the number of children placed Reported in HC out with the 41 Annual authority. (Uses (2006/07) 43 38 39 37 3 Performance highest number THC Report recorded in any one quarter) Percentage of all 16 or 17 years olds 64.1% Reported in HC ceasing to be (25 of 39) 68.3% 61.3% 50.0% 62.1% Annual looked after (28 of 41) (38 of 62) = Performance attaining at least (2006/07) (28 of 56) (41 of 66) Report one SCQF level 3 in THC any subject Percentage of 16 or 17 years olds 27.8% ceasing to be 58.8% Reported in HC looked after (5 of 18) 28.6% 31.6% 57.6% Annual (10 of attaining at least (2006/07) (8 of 28) (12 of 38) (19 of 33) = Performance 17) one SCQF level 3 in THC Report English and Maths at home Percentage of 16 or 17 years olds 47.6% ceasing to be 30.8% Reported in HC looked after (10 of 21) 69.2% 41.7% 39.4% Annual (12 of attaining at least (2006/07) (9 of 13) (10 of 24) (13 of 33) = Performance 39) one SCQF level 3 in THC Report English and Maths away from home Percentage of all 16 38.5% 41.5% 35.5% 39.3% 48.5% Reported in HC or 17 years olds (15 of 39) (17 of 41) (22 of 62) (22 of (32 of 66) = Annual

8. 3 ceasing to be (2006/07) 56) Performance looked after THC Report attaining at least one SCQF level 3 in English and Maths Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The attainment indicators for Looked After Children were assessed as sustained this is due to the small cohort sizes each year, percentage change indicators are therefore not effective measures of progress.

8. 4

National Outcome 8 We have improved the life chances for children, young people and families at risk (also contributes to NO 4;15)

Local Outcome 8A People across the Highlands have access to the services they need (also contributes to LO B;D)

The Highland Underage Sex Protocol (HUSP) The Highland Underage Sex Protocol (HUSP) website Effective Child Protection depends fundamentally on agencies sharing appropriate information about young people. However, confidence that information about them will not be shared without their consent is key to young people’s willingness to access sexual health services. It is a contradiction which has led to the needs of young people not always being appropriately met.

The Highland Underage Sex Protocol (HUSP) was developed to provide clarity for all staff in taking difficult decisions around confidentiality/information-sharing for sexually active 13, 14 and 15-year-olds. This will improve young people’s life chances where they are at risk from sexual abuse or from teenage pregnancy/sexually transmitted infections by ensuring they have access to both the sexual health and child protection services they need.

Central to HUSP is an Ethical Framework, encouraging practitioners to examine all dimensions of decision-making, allowing for the inevitability of different responses by practitioners from agencies whose www.husp.org.uk professional disciplines are supported by divergent professional codes of conduct.

HUSP was developed by a multi-agency team comprising Social Work, Education, Health and Police. The process involved significant negotiation and a degree of compromise on all sides. It depended primarily on the formation of strong relationships within the team. Young people were consulted through out the process through a variety of mechanisms including: discussion with the Youth Voice Health sub-group; presentation/workshops at the Youth Voice conference; direct discussion with the Youth Convener. The voluntary sector was involved throughout through Highland Brook which advised on aspects of policy and commented on all stages of drafts. The HUSP website is the first resource of its kind. Training is being provided to all relevant staff. Staff feedback has been very positive and the resource is now in use across the NHS Highland/Highland Council area and the subject of considerable interest across Scotland.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: NHS Highland; The Highland Council; Northern Constabulary; Lorraine Mann, Senior Health Promotion Specialist (Sexual Health and Young People)

8. 5

Local Outcome E Our natural heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health & learning benefits

Wild things! pupils paddling the ‘basher boat’ Moray-based charity Wild things! run Wilderness Skills workshops that encourage a mutually beneficial they made relationship between individuals and their natural environment. These workshops are hugely beneficial for young adults with behaviour and special educational needs as well as for adults recovering for addiction. In addition to heightening individuals’ understanding and commitment to nature conservation they also help to improve self esteem, confidence, team work, health and wellbeing. They often use the John Muir Award scheme as a structure.

During an average session with Wild things! pupils learn all about the environment through bushcraft. They learn how to build shelters, make bowls using fire, stalk, tool making, read animal tracks and signs, manage woodland for conservation, and to identify wild foods and medicinal plants.

The courses range from a 2 day introductory training to a 5 day more advanced course, leading up to a ‘bushcraft’ expedition of four to five days on ‘the trail’. The very practical and hands on nature of these courses make then particularly good for people who may have or be struggling within mainstream Stripping nettles to make cordage education and life.

By targeting their work at young adults with behaviour and special educational needs as well as for adults recovering for addiction Wild things! make a huge difference to peoples’ lives. Their work helps to break the cycle of depravation and to meet National Outcome 8 by improving the life chances for children and young people.

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: Ellen Packham, Wild Things!; Anne Murray, Scottish Natural Heritage; John Muir Awards; Highland and Moray Schools; Action for Children – Inverness and Elgin; Hut 9 – Forres Academy; Children First including the Fifteen Forward project – Elgin; The Base at Charleston Academy; Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society; Outfit Moray; Studio 8 – Moray;Workers Education Authority Aberdeen.

8. 6

Local Outcome 8A People across the Highlands have access to the services they need.

Gemma Mackintosh, Youth Convener 2010- 11 with Highland Council Convener The Highland Council was the first local authority in Scotland to establish the post of youth convener; a post which was created to offer a consistent link for members and officials to informally seek the young people's views. This post was in addition to Highland Youth Voice, the democratically elected youth parliament; area youth forums and pupil councils in schools. The Youth Convener role is a post held for one year. The post holder attends and has voting rights on Education, Culture & Sport committee and the Joint Committee for Children and Young People as well as sitting on the NHS Board and links with Northern Constabulary. Following three successful years of the post, and in order to enhance the participation and involvement of young people in service delivery, the Highland Council agreed to invite the Youth Convener to attend other strategic committees and to speak at these meetings at the discretion of the Chair. In addition Service Directors are encouraged to seek the views of the Youth Convener on specific and relevant issues as and when they arise. HYV conference, summer 2011, celebrating 2011 saw the celebrations of tenth anniversary of Highland YouthVoice, the Highland youth parliament 10 years of the youth parliament. which links to area youth forums. Old members attended the summer conference on Skye to talk about their memories and achievements as a part of the parliament. The young people focussed on “making change happen” and the programme looked at political, educational, and financial change. Colleagues from Inverness College and Inverness Campus delivered a workshop to gather the thoughts, opinions and attitudes about the plans for Inverness Campus. Young people were also encouraged to consider involvement in their local Community Council in line with new rules governing elections enabling 16 &17 year olds to vote. This will continue to be promoted by the new youth convener in the autumn of 2011.

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: NHS Highland; Ian Abbot, Audrey Anthoney The Highland Council; Highlands and Islands Fire & Rescue Service; Northern Constabulary; Inverness College; University of Highlands and Islands; voluntary sector partners; youth services team.

8. 7

Local Outcome M Attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol and drugs are changed and those in need are supported by better prevention and treatment services.

Young people from Alness having presented their findings to Scottish Government. Youth Services staff work with young people in a variety of settings on issue based project work relating to health and well being. Examples include the street work project in and around Fort William on Friday and Saturday nights which continues to engage with large groups of young people, some of whom are engaged in underage drinking. Young people in Alness took part in a project for Young Scot commissioned by Scottish Government to investigate “peer lead approaches to substance misuse”. The young people interviewed over 120 young people and collated evidence which was presented as a film to a panel of experts including representatives from the Scottish Government Drugs Policy team and Alcohol Policy team, the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency and the Youth Commissioner from Youth Commission on Alcohol. In Gairloch, CashBack for Community funding is being used to support a project allowing young people to access information on drugs, alcohol & healthy lifestyle – the young people are actively planning the sessions themselves. Workshops have taken place, hosted by Golspie Youth Action Project, in which young people looked at Info on photograph smoking cessation and produced 2 animations called “Pathetic Excuses for Smoking” and “Kill Joy”. The animations have already been shown at youth clubs in the area and a health drop-ins at Golspie High School.

Seven Highland YouthVoice representatives from Portree and Plockton attended Skye & Lochalsh Drug & Alcohol forum review and planning day. The youth forum has also contributed to a leaflet for distribution with a previously designed Safe Festival DVD. Tutor notes have been produced so it can be launched as a resource pack for schools and youth groups.

Partner Organisations & Lead officers: NHS Highland; The Highland Council; Northern Constabulary; voluntary sector partners including Youth Scot.

8. 8 National Outcome 9 We live our lives safe from crime, disorder and danger Tha sinn a’ tighinn beò sàbhailte bho eucoir, mì-rian is cunnart

Significant progress has been made over the last year against National Outcome 9 and local outcomes ‘People are, and feel, safe from crime, disorder and danger’ and ‘Attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol and other drugs are changed and those in need are supported by better prevention and treatment services’. A majority of the Highland population continue to believe that the Highlands are a safe place to live. 93% of respondents of 2011 Highland Council Survey of Performance and Attitudes and 97% of the Northern Constabulary 2011 Community Consultation Survey perceived the area within a 15 minute walk of their home as ‘very safe’ or ‘fairly safe’ in the last year.

Fewer people show concern over becoming a victim of crime (5% less respondents of the Northern Constabulary’s 2011 Community Consultation Survey been either ‘very worried’ or ‘slightly worried’ about becoming a victim of crime). Joint working and the development of new targeted services has contributed to reducing the number of persistent young offenders from 50 in 2007/08 to 13 in 2010/11. Reconviction rates for the Highlands show an almost 3% reduction in a percentage of people reconvicted within 2 years for the Highland Council area.

The number of racist incidents and crimes of domestic abuse have both seen a decrease in 2010/11 comparing with 2009/10. Partner Agencies continue to develop joint approaches to domestic abuse and hate incident and crime reporting to ensure public confidence in reporting leves is reached.

Despite a general fall in a number of deaths and injuries on the Highland roads, road safety and speeding cars continue to be a top concern for the Highland communities. Another 338 students benefited from the Pass Plus enhanced driver education programme in 2010/11 with a total of 1651 new drivers registered with Pass Plus since the scheme was established in August 2005.

Alcohol and other drugs misused continued to be a major contributor to community safety issues in the Highlands.. Although the number of drug related deaths have further reduced in 2010/11 still too many people die from a drug overdose. Proactive work is ongoing to raise awareness of the dangers of substance misuse; on removing drugs from the communities and streamlining the Naloxone Project to further reduce a number drug related deaths. Providing better prevention and treatment services remains also a high priority for community safety in Highlands. Through the Alcohol Brief Intervention Scheme 5383 screenings were carried out over the last three years. Additionally a significant improvement has been made in offering faster assessment appointment when accessing treatment services. Work is ongoing on improving reporting mechanism for measuring a number of drug misusers in contact with treatment and care services and also on reporting fires which contributory factor was alcohol.

9. 1 Progress at March 2011 on local outcomes

Status at Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline end Targets March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 2010/11 Local outcome 9.B No increase in the number of 38 50 30 No increase in People are, and feel, persistent young THC 47 13 revised revised numbers safe from crime, disorder offenders (2006/07) and danger Percentage of Highland Highland residents who rate Highland NC data NC data the area within 15 NC data not 95% (H) 97% (H) =>95% not not minutes walk of available (2009) (2011) (2010/11) available available their home as fairly (2005) (2007) safe or very safe 95% (H) THC =>90% 95% (H) 92% (H) 96.8% (H) 92.9% (H) (2007/08) (2010/11) Percentage of adult residents Highland Highland Highland stating that they NC data not NC data NC data =<52% were very or available 51% (H) not not 56% (H) (2010/11) slightly worried (2003) available available about becoming a NC victim of crime Number of 1% decrease recorded non- baselined on sexual crimes the previous 3 against the person years average (Class 1 Crime) 546 for the final (2006/07) 418 451 370 398 year of the NC SOA (=reduction of around 5 crimes) (2010/11)) Number of 387 1% decrease recorded crimes of (2006/07) 330 361 237 338 baselined on Indecency (Class 2 NC the previous 3

9. 2 Crime) years average for the final year of the SOA (= reduction of around 4 crimes) (2010/11) Number of 1% decrease recorded crimes of baselined on Dishonesty (Class the previous 3 3 Crimes) years average 6039 for the final (2006/07) 5739 5977 5411 4625 year of the NC SOA (=reduction of around 55 crimes) (2010/11) Number of 1% decrease recorded crimes of baselined on malicious mischief the previous 3 and vandalism years average (Class 4 Crimes) 4714 for the final (2006/07) 4420 4185 3666 3165 year of the NC SOA (=reduction of around 45 crimes) (2010/11) Number of fatal 42 average 46 and non fatal fire (2005-08) 49 57 26 36 (2010/11) casualties HIFRS Reconviction rates 44% (2003/04) for Highland local 43% (2004/05) 43% 40.1% Reduce by 2% authority area 45% (2005/06) n/a n/a (2006/07) (2007/08) (2010/11) (within 2 years) NC

Incidents of 1236 1158 1214 1138 =

9. 3 domestic abuse (2006/07) 1571 NC Crimes of domestic 1064 abuse (2006/07) 998 1056 1174 950 = NC Percentage reduction in road 27 traffic accident Downward (2007/08) 27 33 28 26 = fatalities trend NC

Percentage reduction in seriously injured 129 Downward road traffic (2007/08) 129 117 105 90 trend accident casualties NC

Percentage 1 reduction in road Downward (2007/08) 1 3 2 0 traffic accidents trend NC child fatalities Percentage reduction seriously 14 Downward injured road traffic (2007/08)) 14 2 7 10 = trend accident child NC casualties Increase number of 450 young drivers 241 (2010/11) receiving (2006/07) 269 353 363 326 = (increased enhanced driver THC grant amount) education Reduction in Not households included in 74% (H) reporting concerns annual =<70% (2006/07) 75% (H) 74% (H) 72.4% (H) = with speeding survey due (2010/11) THC to budget consultation

9. 4 Highland =<70% Highland data data not Highland * (2010/11) not available 74% (H) 78% (H) available data not changed Indicator to be (2005) (2009) (2011) (H&I) available question reviewed for NC (2007) 2010/11 future reporting Reduce the Increase number of expected until recorded hate 65 Hate Crimes confidence in 69 Hate 89 Hate 75 Hate 67 Hate crimes and (2006/07) = reporting levels Crimes Crimes Crimes Crimes incidents NC reached possibly before 2010/11 Reduce the Increase number of expected until 106 Racism recorded hate 124 135 confidence in Incidents 104 Racism 89 Racist crimes and Racism Racism = reporting levels (2006/07) Incidents Incidents incidents Incidents Incidents reached NC possibly before 2010/11 Reduce the Increase number of expected until 6 Other Hate recorded hate 14 Other 29 Other 11 Other 12 Other confidence in incidents crimes and Hate Hate Hate hate = reporting levels (2006/07) incidents incidents incidents incidents Incidents reached NC possibly before 2010/11 Narrative on progress on Local Outcome 9.B.2 A very high percentage of the Highland population feel that the Highlands is a safe place to live. 2011 Highland Council Survey of Performance and Attitudes demonstrate sustained results for this indicator with 92.9% of respondents perceiving the area within a 15 minute walk of their home as ‘very safe’ or ‘fairly safe’ in 2010/11. The results of the Northern Constabulary 2011 Community Consultation Survey (for 2010/11) which asked the same question demonstrate improved results with 97% of respondents’ perceiving the area within 15 minutes walk of their home as either ‘very safe’ or ‘fairly safe’. 9.B.10 Incidents of domestic abuse have increased compared with the previous year, however this increase is attributable to changes in recording processes and not an actual increase in reported incidents. The MARAC pilot in Ross-Shire has evidenced good working practices for the risk assessment and logging of Domestic Abuse incidents. The MARAC process provides a multi-agency forum for sharing relevant information and taking actions that are appropriate, proportionate and timely in order to reduce future harm to very high/high risk victims of domestic abuse. Partnership working is currently on- going with a view to extending the MARAC process across the Highlands. 9.B.11 Crimes of domestic abuse in Highland have decreased by 224 crimes (from 1174 to 950) during 2010/11 compared with 2009/10. The vast majority of these crimes relate to the crimes of Breach of the Peace and Minor Assault. It is currently unknown if this is an actual decreasing trend, as

9. 5 domestic incidents and crimes are widely under-reported due to victims being fearful to report incidents to police. 9.B.15 The 2011 Highland Council Survey of Performance and Attitudes and Northern Constabulary 2011 Community Consultation Survey highlights that speeding cars continues to be a top concern for the Highland communities despite a general fall in deaths and injuries on the Highland roads. The number of respondents reporting concerns with speeding through the 2011 Highland Council Survey of Performance and Attitudes has reduced from 74% in 2006/07 to 72% in 2010/11. Such reduction resulted from a great amount of partnership work carried out over the last years aiming to improve safety on Highlands roads. Direct comparison of figures reported through the Northern Constabulary 2011 Community Consultation Survey is not possible due to a change of a question asked. The 2011 consultation question related to overall road safety, agglomerating issues like speeding and also drink and drug driving. Earlier consultations reported separately on all the concerns listed above. 9.B.16/17/18 The number of hate crimes/incidents are at similar levels as in the previous year. It is expected that there will be an increase in the number of such crimes and incidents in the future as it is assessed that they are currently under reported. Since being introduced in May 2009, the Hate Free Highland campaign has continued to assist third party reporting of hate/racist incidents. Trained individuals in organisations other than Police deal with reports of incidents and then forward information to the police on behalf of a victim or witness, often acting as a link between the two parties. Local outcome 9.M Recorded alcohol defined crimes Attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol and 1661 1545 other drugs are changed (2004/05) 1499 1425 1001 1288 (2010/11) and those in need are NC supported by better prevention and treatment services Improved health No base-line intervention for available. Target those misusing based on alcohol, measured prevalence rates 5383 8964 by achieving the of alcohol 1566 (THC area) For NHS H agreed number of misuse. 88 (THC area) 8981 area (including n/a screenings using Counting the (THC area) 2 years (NHS H Argyll & Bute) the appropriate intervention and total area) (2010/11) screening tool and screening 3 years total appropriate alcohol begins in brief intervention 2008/09 NHSH Number of alcohol 30 related fires (2010/11) 32 (average) 34 5% reduction (2005-08) 16 20 32 = (average) per annum HIFRS (2009/10) Improved

9. 6 reporting

Recorded drug 2160 2009 defined crime (2006/07) 1935 1896 1747 1696 (2010/11) figures NC Reduce waiting By Dec 2010

times for drug 90% offered Average Average Average Average Average treatment and assessment 89% <28 days 85%<28 74% <28 75% <28 93% < 28 rehabilitation appointment (2006/07) days days days days services – referral within 4 weeks NHSH/HADP to assessment (2010/11) Increase the Work ongoing number of drug on determining misusers in contact new target 534 with treatment and Data due 587 (2005/06) 368 209 229 care services 2012 * (2008) NHSH/HADP FOR PARTNERS DISCUSSION Reduce the 11 7 20 14 6 number of drug (2006) 25% reduction 2007 2008 2009 2010 related deaths NHSH/HADP (2010/11) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome While the volume of alcohol defined crime (1288 offences) has increased in the past year (from 1001), it is still well below the set target of 1545 offences. It is highlighted that the figures used here relate purely to “alcohol defined” crimes so do not include other crimes/offences where the consumption of alcohol has been a contributing factor to offending taking place. The majority of alcohol related disorder and violence in the Highland area continues to be committed within Inverness city, as it has the highest population density and a larger volume of licensed premises. Operation Respect was carried out in Inverness during the run up to the festive period and yet again proved very successful in reducing alcohol related disorder and violence. Public safety is a key aim of the operation and using resources such as taxi marshals and street pastors proved very useful in preventing intoxicated revellers gathering in the streets outside licensed premises. Increased emphasis on licensed premises checks have also been placed across the Northern Constabulary force area in an effort to reduce alcohol related violence. 9.M.2 There were 8981 Alcohol Brief Interventions carried out in the NHS H area (including Argyll & Bute) since 2008/09. The number of interventions carried out within the Highland Council area over the 3 year period (2008/09 – 2010/11) was 5383. The SOA target of 8964 was a 3 year target for the NHS Highland area, including Argyll & Bute. The target was not broken down by local authority area and the figures reflect performance across both local authority areas with the target achieved within the timescale set. 9.M.3 The number of alcohol related fires has increased from 20 in 2009/10 to 32 in 2010/11 mainly as a result of improved reporting by crews of alcohol involvement as a contributory cause. 9.M.4 The figures used for this indicator are only for “drug defined crime”, i.e. supply or possession of controlled drugs, and do not include offences carried out by individuals under the influence of drugs at the time a crime was committed. The number of “drug defined crimes” has decreased annually in the

9. 7 past three years and are somewhat lower than the set target. However, intelligence-led operations and proactive work continue to remove drugs from the communities of the Highlands. The targeting of higher level drug dealers, whilst resulting in fewer, but larger, seizures of drugs, has a greater impact on criminal networks in our area. 9.M.5 The new target for waiting times for drug treatment and rehabilitation services has been achieved with 93% of clients offered an assessment appointment that falls within 4 weeks from the date referral received. This target will require updating as the wait times now apply to alcohol service waits as well as drugs. NHSH are in the process of developing their trajectory to meeting the 'Referral to Treatment' within 3 weeks by 2013 and will be agreeing this with Scottish Government departments in October. Highland is on target to meet 90% by 2013 but will be continuing to monitor quarterly. 9.M.6 229 new individuals were reported as entering drug treatment in the Highland ADP area (co-terminus with Highland Council area) in 2009/10. Data for 2010/11 will be available in 2012. The 2009/10 figure is again a lower number than the years previous to the introduction of the SMR25 database; so the figures are not comparable to years before 2008 (when the database was implemented). Also there continues to be development with increased use of this database by services so the numbers may not yet be as accurate a reflection of new clients entering drug treatment; but the numbers reported in the coming and following years are expected to reflect improved collection. Work is ongoing on determining a new target and on improving the accuracy and completion of SMR25 returns.

9. 8

National Outcome 9 - We live our lives safe from crime, disorder and danger

Local Outcome 9.B - People are, and feel, safe from crime, disorder and danger.

Tackling the number of deer on the roads – Road Safety Vehicle Activated Sign warning motorists of By tackling the number of deer on the roads this work is helping to reduce the number of fatal and deer crossing the road. ©SNH seriously injured road traffic accident casualties and to meet Local Outcome B – People are, and feel, safe from crime disorder and danger.

Throughout Scotland the numbers of reported Deer Vehicle Collisions (DVC’s) are on the increase. Two of the main sources of DVC related information within the Highland Council area reported that there were 459 reported incidences between 2008-10* but there are likely to be many more incidents going unrecorded. DVC’s bring with them increased risk to public safety, animal welfare and increased risk of damage to property.

Three main DVC ‘Priority sites’ were identified in 2003 within the Highland Region. These were primarily identified as areas suitable for further action due to high levels of traffic, high speeds, high numbers of deer present and subsequent particularly high rates of deer accidents in past years. The roads were: A835 Red Deer at the side of the road RTA. Garve – Ullapool, A82 Bridge of Orchy – Glencoe, A87/A887 Shiel Bridge – Loch Ness and Inverlaggan. ©SNH. Boards were established for these routes and these sought solutions to the high numbers of DVC’s. These included; Program of DVC monitoring; vegetation/forestry management; additional fencing; installation of vehicle activated signs (VAS); additional targeted deer culling. The number of recorded DVC’s has fallen at these sites despite the national rise.

The partnership between Scottish Natural Heritage, trunk road operating companies and The Highland Council continues to gather data on these priority roads to better understand the impact of the mitigation measures on local trunk roads in the long term.

Langbein J, Deer Vehicle Collisions in Scotland Monitoring Project 2008-2011. Draft Final Report June For information on reproduction rights contact the 2011 for SNH. Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: James Hammond ,Scottish Natural Heritage; Derick Donald, Scotland TranServ, Angus Corby, Transport Scotland; Northern Constabulary; local residents; landowners

9. 9

Local Outcome 9B People are, and feel safe from crime, disorder and danger

Preventing Antisocial Behaviour – Hoax Call DVD Snapshot of the Hoax Call DVD with a DVD Puppet Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service (HIFRS) in Partnership with the Highland Council have produced a DVD aimed at children in primary 6/7 focussing on the consequences of hoax calls. The DVD which was filmed by HIFRS features personnel from the Inverness Fire Station and HIFRS control room. The main focus of the DVD was a puppet family consisting of a brother, sister and grandpa puppet. Filming took place with support from the Ministry of Defence who allowed utilising Cameron Barracks site as a filming location. The DVD demonstrates the consequences of making hoax calls and effectively shows the devastation that can occur as a result of a fire engine answering a hoax call leaving it unable to respond to a genuine incident. The Highland Council have distributed the DVD for the use within schools throughout the Highlands area for the use of the teachers. Lesson plans have also been developed by Education, Culture and Sport to accompany the DVD. Hoax calls not only consume valuable resources but could potentially cost people’s lives; preventing and tackling anti social behaviour in this way encourages young people to consider the consequences of their actions and deters them from partaking in such behaviour leading to safer neighbourhoods and better protected communities.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Louise Jones, The Highland Council; Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service; Ministry of Defence.

9. 10

Local Outcome 2B People are, and feel, safe from crime, disorder and danger

Literacies Opportunities for Offenders LOOP conference, Inverness The LOOP partnership – Literacies Opportunities for Offenders in Partnership - was established to support offenders and ex-offenders access learning opportunities, particularly literacies learning. Chaired by the Highland Council’s Prison Literacies Liaison Officer (PLLO), partners include Public and Third Sector organisations. Research has shown that the prevalence of poor literacy skills is far greater in the prison population than in the general community and is one of the barriers to employability and accessing support services. By working together this partnership is taking a holistic approach to supporting offenders both within Porterfield Prison and on release. There is anecdotal evidence reported by the partners which strongly suggests that this support is helping to reduce re-offending. By working together the partners are able to share expertise and training opportunities. An example of this is the delivery of ITALL courses – Initial Training in Adult Literacy Learning - facilitated by the PLLO specifically for LOOP partners to upskill staff and enable them to support clients with literacies issues. Volunteers and peer mentors who had themselves previously had a history of offending also had the opportunity to access this training. The partnership has also organised two successful conferences which LOOP Conference, Inverness have raised awareness of offender literacies and learning issues and shared best practice. Another initiative has been organising Read to Lead training which has resulted to reading groups being set up within the prison and the community. Within Porterfield Prison the inclusion of the Prison Literacies Liaison Officer within the Links Centre has been very useful. Literacies learning in the prison are usually undertaken on a one-to-one tutorial basis. Dyslexic prisoners can access the Toe by Toe programme supported by peer mentors. The Shannon Trust, SPS, and the PLLO support both mentors and learners. An ESOL “English for Equalities” group (English for Speakers of Other Languages) has been established in Porterfield in response to an identified need. The PLLO also supports Highland ex-offenders in the community if they wish to continue their learning journeys. This can include further literacies provision and progression and signposting to other providers such as APEX and colleges where they can continue to develop their skills for personal and employment purposes. The LOOP network is financially supported through a grant from Learning and Teaching Scotland. Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Norman Ross – Prison Literacies Liaison Officer (Highland Council) Highland Council (Adult Learning / Highland Libraries / Homeless Day Centre / Youth Services) / Scottish Prison Service / Highland Adult Literacies Partnership / APEX / Skills Development Scotland / Jobcentre Plus / Families Outside / Shannon Trust / Inverness College / Moray Open Doors Project / Cale House

9. 11

Local Outcome 9B People are, and feel, safe from crime, disorder and danger

Tackling Noise Pollution Tackling Noise Pollution is a pilot project initiated in July 2010 to tackle noise related incidents. The initiative set up between Northern Constabulary, the Highland Council Housing and Property Service and Environmental Health improved the previous sometimes lengthy process and allowed a quicker and more efficient response to noise pollution incidents. The pilot utilised the Police Officer performing the Antisocial Behaviour Officer role within the Northern Constabulary Policy & Co-ordination Unit taking on the task of obtaining information on a daily basis regarding noisy neighbour and excessive noise type calls. This information then has been passed on a daily basis, in the form of an email to the Highland Council Environmental Health Office. The email detailed any noise incidents dealt with by Police Officers in the Highland Council area covering the preceding 24 hours. Should the address be controlled by a Registered Social Landlord (e.g. Albyn Housing or Cairn Housing Association) then the Highland Council would refer the information to the appropriate Landlord. This action would then generate a letter from the Environmental Health Office to the person responsible for the noise informing them that the Highland Council and Environmental Health Officer were aware of the incident and the consequences of a similar incident occurring again. This new approach of responding to noise related incidents ensured that relevant information was notified to the Council timeously and that appropriate action would be taken at an earlier stage resulting in fast and more efficient response from the partner agencies. The feedback received from the Highland Council staff on the initiative was very positive and resulted in the practice been included as Northern Constabulary policy in the recently revamped Antisocial Behaviour Force Reference Document.

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: Northern Constabulary; The Highland Council; Registered Social Landlords including Albyn Housing Society, Cairn Housing Association

9. 12

National Outcome 10 We live in well-designed, sustainable places where we are able to access the amenities and services we need Tha sinn a’ fuireach ann an àiteachan a tha air an deagh dhealbhadh is a tha seasmhach, far an urrainn dhuinn na goireasan is na seirbheisean a tha a dhìth oirnn fhaighinn

Overall there is good progress in delivering the local outcomes set for National Outcome 10.

There has been sustained progress on the targets set for housing development in Highland with targets exceeded for the period 2007/8 to 2010/11 and this sits in the context of economic downturn.

Ambitious targets for provision of new affordable housing have been exceeded. This has resulted in considerable new housing provision in communities, across the Highlands, which were experiencing the greatest housing pressures and need for affordable housing. Investment has been in line with area targets set out in Highland’s Housing Strategy.

New affordable provision has enabled Highland’s rural communities to be more sustainable and has supported economic growth in both rural and more urban communities. Moreover affordable housing investment has forward funded infrastructure provision enabling development of private housing on previously mothballed development sites in a period of sustained economic downturn. The affordable housing investment has also maintained a level of construction related employment, retaining local long established businesses.

The area’s success in delivering affordable housing, which has been achieved in partnership with a range of housing providers and through significant use of Council resources, has been recognised nationally.

Future affordable housing development will be constrained by the limited availability of funding and changes to subsidy mechanisms. Because of the on-going high levels of need for affordable housing, we are meeting these challenges by exploring alternative approaches to investment and new mechanisms for providing housing.

Expenditure on upgrading roads has recently been boosted with the success in obtaining £500,000 European funding to assist with lifeline road projects and a programme is in place for the replacement of major and lifeline bridges. Expenditure on maintaining our road network and lifeline now totals £75.497m since 2007/8 well in excess of the target set.

Highland continues to rate highly as a place to live with a consistent trend of above 90% of residents who view their neighbourhood or community positively as a place to live.

10. 1 Progress at March 2011 on Local Outcomes

Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at Status at 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 end 2010/11 targets Local Outcome 10.A % of residents who <90%

view their 95.0% Reduce People across the neighbourhood or (2007/08) 95.0% 92.0% 96.5% 92.9% variation across Highlands have 3 community positively wards in % access to the services THC as a place to live terms they need At least maintain % SHS 69% rated 62% rated National At least 69% v. residents stating they very good 27% very good, indicator not good 27% good are satisfied with their rated good 33% rated reported Local target neighbourhood / (2005/06) SHS not due SHS not due good frequently TOB 2009 community Awaiting regional survey for publishing for publishing * (2007/08) enough to confirmation this will base-line published provide useful Removal continue to be (2008/09) Dec-09 analysis recommended measured in the SHS. SG Increase the number 17 of community (2007/08) 17 22 22 22 5% transport schemes = THC supported Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The % of residents viewing their neighbourhoods or communities as positive places to live remains consistently high in Highland with above 90% being reported year on year. Community transport schemes funded are being maintained. Local Outcome 10.E

Our natural heritage is Hectares Reclaimed, New Initiative protected and including sites initiative Delivery plan (2008/09) n/a 16.53 hectare enhanced enabling it accessed for future commenced on schedule 3 THC to deliver economic, use health and learning benefits Narrative on progress on Local Outcome A baseline is now in place for reclaimed land and data reported at a national level will be used for reporting. Local Outcome10.F

Carbon emissions are Number / % of new Design guidance reduced and developments which Legislation approved No. and % communities are are accompanied by a n/a introduced in 75% 100% (2006/07) 3 target 100% protected from the sustainable design Aug-09 THC consequences of statement changing weather patterns 10. 2 Narrative on progress on Local Outcome

Local Outcome 10.I Development Subject of an Plan amended Plans scheme Examination by Development and To support the prepared and Scottish Highland Plan Scheme Main issues strengthened economy access is consulted Government Development Plan in published Report due to SEA Plan in place improved to housing, upon. Coastal Reporters, and 3 place (2006/07) prepared and transport and high development report THC consultation speed broadband strategy on expected Dec- process target. 2011 Deliver 6,000 houses 1847 6000 units enabled by planning (2007/8) 1,568 1,119 1212 1,847 completed by policy (2007/8 – New baseline (cum 3415) (cum 4534) (cum 5746) = 2010/11 2010/11) THC 2,000 affordable 552 2000 houses approved or 525 484 765 (2006/07) 421 2007/8 - on site (within the (cum 946) (cum 1430) (cum 2195) 3 THC 2010/11 6,000 target above) Increase investment Minimum of £18.14m* in lifeline roads and £54m for (2007/08) n/a £18.37*m £18.32*m £20.65*m bridges in the 3 2008/09- THC Highlands 2010/11 Narrative on progress on Local Outcome *The calculation methodology has been reviewed and figures amended Overall cumulative completion figures are making good progress having now reached 5746 in 2010/11 just below the 6000 target set by 2010/11. The cumulative total for affordable homes completed rose to 2073 in 2010/11 exceeding the target of 2000 by 2010/11. Clearly these figures have been affected by the recession and the reduction in house completions. These fell by 35% from 1845 to 1203 between 2007/8 and 2010/11 and provide context for the achievement of the affordable homes targets.

Overall there has been very good progress on the targets set for housing development in Highland and this sits in the context of economic downturn. Expenditure on upgrading roads has recently been boosted with the success in obtaining £500,000 European funding to assist with lifeline road projects. A programme is in place for the replacement of major and lifeline bridges. Expenditure on maintaining our road network and lifeline now totals £75.497m since 2007/8 well in excess of the target set.

10. 3

National Outcome 10 We live in well designed, sustainable places where we are able to access the amenities and services we need

Local Outcome 10.E: Our Natural Heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health and learning benefits. (contributing to LO 10I)

Open Space in New Residential Development: Interim Supplementary Guidance Standards for Accessibility The Highland Council, worked with Kit Campbell Associates to create robust standards for quantity, quality and accessibility of open space in all new residential developments of four or more houses. In doing so the Council have put in place a vision for open space in Highland, with a methodology for achieving this vision, through setting standards and providing guidance to the development industry, planners and communities. The guidance is accompanied by an Open Space Requirements Calculator which provides information on how much open space will be required for a specific residential development based upon the size, location and tenure of the development. The standards are supported by the Highland Greenspace Audit 2010. To date the guidance has been in place for 25 months and has been used in the determination of planning applications and is a valuable tool when providing pre-application advice through the Pre-Application Advice Service for Major Developments. This had lead to greater transparency in the decision making and pre-application advice processes. The guidance is to be given additional weight in the decision making process, as it is intended that it will be adopted as statutory supplementary guidance to the Highland wide Local Development Plan in Spring An example of the type of open space that 2012. can benefit from the appliation of the The Guidance was given a Scottish Government Scottish Award for Quality in Planning for Outstanding guidance. Performance and Quality in Development Planning in March 2009.

You can view the guidance online on the link below: http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/planning/developmentplans/developmentplanpolicyguidance/ osspg.htm

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: The Highland Council; Kit Campbell Associates.

10. 4

Local Outcomes 10A People in the Highlands have access to the services they need (contributing to LO L)

Assynt Centre, Lochinver

Until its closure in September 2010, the Assynt Centre in Lochinver, West Sutherland, functioned as a Highland Council-run residential and day care facility for older people. Extensive joint working between the local community and the Council, together with some funding from the Council, led to the establishment in September 2010 of ‘Community Care Assynt’ (CCA), a new Community Interest Company, which re-opened the Assynt Centre as its base. The Assynt Centre now operates as a Community Care Centre, providing health and well-being activity for older people as well as providing day activity for adults who have a learning disability.

Through joint working with health, social work and the community transport scheme, ‘Community Care Assynt’ provides a comprehensive programme of activity that enables older people to access services, socialise, volunteer and acquire new skills.

Key elements of activity include: A drop in service providing advice and information and the chance to socialise and meet others; Provision of a lunch service providing a healthy, cooked lunch, at an affordable price, supporting nutrition and social contact; Access to personal care supported by care at home staff. A hairdressing service is also available A laundry service for those who would be unable to do their own laundry; Learning and social activity including bowls, hobbies and crafts, whist, a book club and writers group; Access to health care including support to access health care. The local GP, nurse and OT regularly attend the centre; Access to community transport, essential for social activity, shopping trips etc

The Assynt Community Care Service User Survey has shown high levels of satisfaction, with 75% rating the service as excellent with the remaining 25% rating it as good. Assynt Community Care is an excellent example of an integrated service developed through a bottom- up partnership approach and delivered through an empowered community.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Amanda Webb, Clive Shepherd, Community Care Assynt & Community Transport Scheme; Bob Silverwood, Highland Council; NHS Highland.

10. 5 Local Outcome Local Outcome – 10A - People across the Highlands have access to the services they need; (contributing to LO C) Highland Core Path Improvement Programme Path to Chanonry Point just before work commenced The Highland Council – Planning, Environment & Development Service- Access Team is currently running the Highland Core Path Improvement Programme 2010-13 with Highland European LEADER funding 45%. The programme aims to involve community groups in the improvement of a local core path and to increase the accessibility on the project path. Community Councils & Groups were asked to nominate paths for the programme. One such path was at Chanonry Point- the most popular location on the UK mainland for watching dolphins and the subject of a number of TV shows which increases its popularity each year. Previously the path was very rough, sandy and grass, and a section of steep gradient and thus access for wheelchair and pushchair users was impossible. Requests for improvement had been highlighted by Ross & Cromarty Disability Access Group and The Musketeers Disability Group from Inverness in the previous year. The Chanonry Point Management Group, a collection of all interested parties, including Scottish Natural Heritage, Moray Firth Partnership, Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society chaired by a local councillor agreed in September 2010 that Fortrose & Rosemarkie Community Council should apply to HCPIP for improvement of the access path to the Point Photo of completed path below The project was surveyed and specified by the Highland Council Access Officer who then contracted a local firm of path specialist contractors in May 2011. The path gradient was reduced by creating a gentle slope and the entire length was dug out with a smooth surface laid over a course sub-base & geotextile. A new viewing & picnic area was created at the end of the path close to where dolphins are commonly seen. At the start of the path a flimsy gate was replaced by a lockable bollard which prevents unauthorised vehicle access. The path will be signposted from the car park. Previously wheelchair inaccessible interpretation panels at the car park where made accessible by placing surfacing material. This work now enables people who were previously excluded from enjoying a wonderful wildlife spectacle the opportunity to get a greater appreciation. The new path provides an attractive and comfortable walking surface for all visitors to the site, and it is appropriate to recognition of the sites importance. The project also highlighted a priority for disabled wheelchair users, recognition of that need by The Highland Council and working with local partners in the Chanonry Point Management Group identifying the funding to achieve the necessary work. Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Philip Waite, The Highland Council; Highland European LEADER Programme; Fortrose & Rosemarkie Community Council; Ross & Cromarty Disability Access Group

10. 6 Local Outcome 10A: People across the Highlands have access to the services they need. (contributing to LO E; I)

Part of the Highland Green Network in Alness Green Networks: Interim Supplementary Guidance

The Highland Council and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) have worked together to produce Green Networks Supplementary Guidance for the Highland’s. This complements the Highland-wide Local Development Plan. Green networks are webs of green spaces and green corridors within and around towns and villages and the wider countryside. These help enhance an area's wildlife and quality of life for people in the area. The new guidance sets out how developers can take green networks into account in design proposals, the Council’s role in assessing planning applications, and ways in which developer contributions can be sought. These green networks will also make the most of the Highlands’ spectacular scenery and tourist attractions. This includes providing an opportunity for a new network of paths and trails to make it easier to access the outdoors. Creating new active travel routes will provide more options for people who want to Location of the Inverness-Nairn Coastal Trail walk and bike to work or at the weekend. Both are essential in helping to tackle climate change. This connectivity is also vital to many plants and animals as it allows them to migrate from one place to another, or in the case of native plants, to colonise other areas. Green Networks make areas more attractive to businesses, home owners and visitors and should help with the economic recovery. The Supplementary Guidance includes detailed information for the A96 area between Inverness and Nairn. Other areas where the Green Network will be developed over the coming years are the coastal area between Inverness and Helmsdale, from Wick eastwards to Thurso and around both Fort William and Portree. You can view an interactive version of the guidance on the link below: http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/planning/developmentplans/localplans/GreenNetworksDraftS upplementaryGuidance.htm

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Simon Hindson, The Highland Council; Anne Murray, Scottish Natural Heritage; Forestry Commission Scotland; NHS Highland; Architecture and Design Scotland; Highlands and Islands Enterprise; Moray Estates

10. 7 National Outcome 11 We have strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others Tha coimhearsnachdan làidir, tapaidh is taiceil againn far a bheil daoine a’ gabhail dleastanas airson an gnìomhan fhèin is mar a tha iad a’ toirt buaidh air càch

Good progress continues to be made in helping communities take control of assets or to derive benefits from renewable energy. The number of communities assisted by the Council and partners to secure community benefit from renewable energy developments increased by a further 21 communities in 2010/11. The number assisted now stands at 71 from a baseline of 24 in 2007/8. The Council’s Community Benefit Working Group developed a set of proposals around a three tier system of distributing community benefit from on-shore wind farms. The CBWG also confirmed the target of £5000 per MW installed for community benefit payments. In terms of offshore wind-farms and benefits a two tier approach has been developed with further consideration to be given to marine and tidal developments in the Pentland Firth. Partners are committed to working with communities to promote greater community control and ownership of renewable energy projects

In the Highland Council’s 2011 Performance Survey over 3 in 4 respondents feel that the area where they live provides them with at least some sense of belonging to a community. Older people are more likely to feel this while people unable to work are less likely to believe this. 63% believe they are involved in the life of their communities, with higher proportions of people with school age children and newer residents feeling this way and lower levels of people unable to work feeling this way. Overall people living in rural wards feel more involved in their communities. The majority of respondents (85%) believe their communities are accepting of people coming from outside the Highlands to live in the area.

Volunteering in Highland continues to show positive trends in self reporting volunteering through the Council’s annual Public Performance Survey (PPS) with 36.3% of respondents are now reporting volunteering in some capacity within their community. Over half of those volunteering do so at least once a week.

HIE’s strategic approach recognises that strong communities contribute significantly to the delivery of sustainable economic growth, particularly in remote, sparsely-populated areas. Assisting communities to grow and become stronger, more dynamic and sustainable is integral to the work of HIE. Challenges remain in many rural parts of Highland, especially away from the main settlements. These communities are characterised by limited commercial opportunities and restricted provision of services, but also by positive responses by local communities to develop their own economic and social projects. Through the community account management model, HIE works with whole communities, fostering population growth, increased community capacity, economic participation and development of new revenue streams.

11. 1 Social enterprises are seen as increasingly important in contributing to economic and social growth in Scotland, addressing in particular cohesion, solidarity and sustainability components of Government Economic Strategy. HIE and the partners grow the impact of social enterprises by assisting individual social enterprises to acquire and manage income-generating assets (including land assets) and to build their capacity to create and grow business activity. The whole social enterprise sector support through networking and generic support and sector development including community benefit from renewable energy, and also supporting crofting community development (where crofting remains an important component of economic and land management activity) – are other areas of social enterprise and communities assistance.

Progress at March 2011 on Local Outcomes

Progress Progress Progress Status at Progress at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March at March at March end Targets March 2010 2008 2009 2011 2010/11 Local Outcome 11.C At least 27% population maintain self-reporting Our communities take a greater current levels volunteering in At least role in shaping their future of 27% 29% 35.5% 36.3% some capacity 3 27% volunteering (2006/07) in the THC Highlands Increase the number of communities assisted in purchasing land or New property for disaggregated 9 9 HIE 10 the benefit of indicator n/a 7 (16 cum) (25 cum) 3 (HC area) their HIE communities 2008/09 - 7 – number of community projects assisted Increase the New number of disaggregated 5 1 n/a 7 communities indicator (12 cum) (13 cum) 3 assisted in THC

11. 2 purchasing 2008/09 - 7 land or property for the benefit of their communities Increase the number of communities 24 13 securing >24 12 21 (2006/07) (49 cum) >24 community ( 24 cum) (36 cum) (70 cum) 3 THC revised benefit from renewable developments Increase the number of community 10 groups 4 31 (2008/09) n/a 10 15 supported to (14 cum) (45 cum) 3 THC invest in renewable energy Number of community led projects supported - Impact Community Evaluated New programmes Account HIE to start (2009) n/a n/a 7 14 Management 3 clarify as HIE CAM (number data exists of for 08/09 communities engaged in CAM) Number of Mapping of local community led Target TBC 121 79 community action plans n/a 11 after (cum 132) (cum 211) 3 led plans (2008) mapping supported THC

11. 3 At least maintain the levels of : Not in 09/10 71% The sense of Survey due to (2007) 72% 68% 75.5% At least 71% belonging to a budget 3 THC community (to consultation some or great extent) At least maintain the levels of : Not in 09/10 82% Community Survey due to (2007) 83% 82% 85% At least 82% acceptance of budget 3 THC new residents consultation (to some or great extent) At least maintain the levels of : Not in 09/10 44% Involvement Survey due to (2007) 44% 44% 53.1% At least 44% in life of the budget 3 THC community consultation (fairly or very involved) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome In 2010/11 HIE had been account managing a total of 14 communities across Highland with the aim to develop and implement communities Growth Plans. This represents a 100% increase in the number of account managed communities since 2009/10. The number of communities assisted in purchasing land or property had also increased in 2010/11 to a total of 25 community projects assisted

11. 4

National Outcome 11 We have strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others

Local Outcome 11.C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future

The Sleat Community Trust – community ownership of Tormore Forest Community ownership of Tormore Forest - official handover On the 27th June 2011 residents in Skye attended a ceremony of taking ownership of the local forest. The Sleat Community Trust has bought a massive 440 hectares of Sleat woodland for their community. The official handover ceremony was attended by Alex Neil MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment. The Sleat Community Trust secured £330,000 through a mixture of private and public funding to buy the Forest and has recently appointed a community forester, Chris Marsh Community ownership of Tormore Forest will provide a wide range of benefits to both the local community and the wider public, offering the means to generate income which can be used for community development projects. The Trust is managed by a team of 16 multi-skilled local directors on behalf of around 470 members and the wider community. Henry Mains is Secretary of the Trust and says that the group is delighted to finally be taking ownership. "This ceremony is really a milestone in the history of Sleat. For the first time ever the community will own the land where we live." Alex Neil MSP said: “The Scottish Government is committed to community empowerment and we believe that sustainable solutions for rural Scotland should emerge from rural communities themselves. This project is testament to the hard work and determination of the local community working together to secure ownership of Tormore Forest”. The valuable timber harvested will meet the growing demand locally for firewood, will offer a secure source of woodchip for Sleat Renewables woodfuel business, and will provide a supply of sawlogs which will be sold on to generate income for further community benefit. The project will provide new employment and recreational opportunities for the people of Sleat. HIE and other partners have been working with the community company throughout this process and are delighted that the community have finally taken over such an important community asset.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Highlands and Islands Enterprise; Highland Council; Scottish Investment Fund; Highland Opportunity; Triodos Bank; the Tudor Trust; the Co-operative Fund; Sleat community

11. 5

Local Outcome 11 C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future.

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) was a partner with Highland LEADER in establishing two environmental grant funds in both Caithness and Sutherland. The Sutherland Partnership Environment Fund and Caithness Environment Fund are delivered by community groups. The Caithness Partnership was awarded a £40,000 grant from SNH and the Highland LEADER programme in December 2009 to operate the Caithness Environment Fund (CEF) which will run until December 2012. We are now in Year 2. The CEF is managed by the Caithness Partnership and encourages community groups to apply for financial assistance towards the delivery of projects that help care for the natural environment and increase people’s enjoyment, awareness and sense of responsibility for nature and heritage locally.

£22,000 has been committed to projects to date - this is on par with its half way stage of delivery.

The CEF is chaired by Councillor Robert Coghill, and a core of six people who are members of the assessment panel, representing the Caithness Biodiversity Group; the Highland Council; SNH; Caithness Local Access Forum and the National Farmers Union.

To date, there have been twelve successful applications. The projects vary greatly, from a pre-school ‘wildlife garden’ costing a few hundred pounds through to an excavation project to landscape a dipping pond costing over four thousand pounds.

The Caithness Partnership will continue to promote the CEF to ensure all grant money is committed by December 2012 and also provide support to groups that have been awarded a grant to ensure funds are drawn down successfully and where appropriate signpost to other potential opportunities.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: LEADER; The Highland Council; Local Access Forum; Scottish Natural Heritage; National Farmers Union; Local Biodiversity Group.

11. 6

Local Outcome 11 C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future

Kinmylies Action Plan – Create Facilities for Young People through “Fusion” Graffiti Art Project

In September 2010 an Inverness West Ward Forum discussed facilities for young people in the Kinmylies area. The public Forum was attended by local young people, the police, Community Councils, the Rector of the local secondary school, Charleston Academy, the Council’s Youth Convener.

There had been a number of recent incidents of anti-social behaviour in recent months, involving youths, violence and intimidation which had featured in the local media. The police responded swiftly to increase patrols and other operations in the area, working with the Council’s and voluntary sector youth workers. The Forum had agreed that there were good local facilities for young people at the Academy and the Community Complex which were not available when they were required i.e. on a Friday and Saturday night. A key outcome of the Forum was to make the facilities more accessible to young people at the weekends.

Celebrating the new Mosiac Saturday night “Fusion” events were held in the Community Complex. They led to a graffiti arts project in a local underpass, a project to create a mosaic in the Academy and to special events including football and beauty products.

The Inverness West Ward Councillors supported Fusion and the other activities by committing funding from their Ward Discretionary Budget.

Other actions included increasing litter collections at the weekend, strengthening the byelaw prohibiting drinking alcohol in public places and improving the street lighting on footpaths and other areas where young people gather.

The combined impact of increased enforcement and improved access to local facilities has been a marked decline in incidents involving anti-social behaviour. Publicity recently has focused on young people’s positive involvement in arts-based projects. Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Chief Insp.Andrew Maclean and Graeme Murdoch, Inspector Ian Graham, Northern Constabulary; Inverness West and Muirtown Community Councils; Graeme Cooper, Action for Children; Cllr Alasdair Christie, Cllr Alex Graham, Cllr Pauline Munro, Nikki Rasdale, Stewart Wardlaw & Tom Speirs, Highland Council

11. 7

Local Outcome 11 C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future

People attending the new ‘Dunbar Pop-in’, The new ‘Dunbar Centre Pop-in’ is open 5 days a week and provides an informal drop-in facility for older recently opened in Inverness people in Inverness City centre. The new service opened recently following extensive planning and development work over the period October 2010 to March 2011.

The ‘Pop-in’ is one of a number of volunteer initiatives coordinated by Alan Michael and local charity ‘Friendship Services’ and was set up with the assistance of Highland Council and the INBS-based Community Development Officer. Together they worked to secure the lease on the old Dunbar Hospital building with assistance from the City’s Common Good Fund, having gained the enthusiastic support of elected members and Ward Manager. An active management group has also been set up, and with some matched funding from the Highland Council, a new catering kitchen was installed, adding value to the premises.

Volunteers were sought from Volunteer Highland and the Community Development Officer was instrumental in enabling 12 volunteers to complete Food Hygiene Certificate training through Transport, Environmental and Community Services (Environmental Health). Some publicity for the new facility was also arranged through the Council’s Press Office.

Feedback from people who have used the new facility has been very positive, with people appreciating the opportunity to socialise and enjoy a chat with friends, old and new. Loneliness amongst our older population is a huge issue and the ‘Pop-in’ is continuing to look at ways in which it may play a role in alleviating this and reach a wider number of people. A highly successful Older Men’s Group meets regularly on a Wednesday. This is particularly encouraging as locally experience is that men have traditionally not been keen to join or participate in groups. A range of invited speakers provide interesting and stimulating input to those attending, broadening horizons, and keeping people engaged within their community. Regular visits are also planned from health and finance professionals are planned.

Partner Organisations and Lead Officers: Kate Maclean, Alan Michael The Highland Council, Voluntary Sector

11. 8 National Outcome 12 We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations Tha sinn a’ cur luach is a’ faighinn tlachd às an àrainneachd thogte is nàdarra againn is tha sinn ga dìon is ga neartachadh airson nan ginealaichean a tha ri teachd

Progress against the National Outcome is mostly positive with Six positive indicators and one negative indicator. Partnership working across the National outcome has been good with the key partners all engaging through a number of forums including the Highland Environment Forum and associated responsible groups.

There has been a delay in Highland Council putting the Highland Historic Environment Strategy out to consultation. This will be non statutory guidance designed to ensure a strategic approach to the protection and enhancement of the built environment within the Highlands. The document will be publically consulted on for 12 weeks from August 2011. Individual Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Plans will also be consulted on in this time period.

Enjoyment of the natural and cultural heritage also records good progress, with the annual Archaeology Festival continuing to attract many enthusiasts and to promote the archaeology of the Highlands. The Festival running during 10/11 saw an increase in numbers from 6148 in 09/11 to 6,500. It is hoped that 2011/12 numbers will increase further. The numbers of people enjoyed guided walks with the Council’s Ranger Service also continues to rise.

Further consideration is being given to how to work in partnership to co-ordinate monitoring and reporting of suspected wildlife crime incidents in the Highlands. Northern Constabulary are leading. The target is 10% increased detection rate.

The Highland Biodiversity Partnership is continuing to work on and support a number of projects across Highland. The Highland Biodiversity Forum 2011 was held in March 2011 and showcased both regional and local Highland biodiversity projects. The marine and coastal environment was the main focus of the morning talks and afternoon and this theme will continue to be the focus for 2011/12. It was acknowledged that targets set out by the Highland Biodiversity Action Plan for 2010-2012 will not all be delivered due to lack of resources. However, an interim report concludes that priority projects with support are being delivered and that these are having a positive impact on Highland’s biodiversity.

The Highland Invasive Species Forum continues to co-ordinate action on priority species across Highland. Projects include national projects like the Rivers and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland’s mink project and local projects like removal of the salmonberry shrub in Caithness. Progress is being made on three of the group’s five priorities, with another project starting in 2011/12 to tackle Himalayan Balsam. Of the seven initial projects identified five had been delivered or were underway in 2010/11.

12. 1 98% of Highland Primary and Secondary Schools hold an Eco-School award. The Eco-Schools Programme engages young people, raising awareness of environmental issues, linking to all areas of the curriculum. Schools study three topics from a total of ten and in Highland litter and waste are mandatory topics for an award. Examples of projects schools have undertaken include: recycling, pond dipping, growing fruit and vegetables, making garden furniture, renewable energy projects, energy management policy development, buddy schemes, waste audits and fair-trade tuck shops. The 2009 cycle to school figure in Highland (7.2 %) is three times that of the Scottish average.

ProgRess at March 2011 on local outcomes

Status at Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline end March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 targets 2010/11 Local outcome 12.E Increase to 95% the proportion of Our natural heritage is protected nature 72% protected and enhanced sites in favourable (2006/07) 78% 78% 78% 77.4% X 95% enabling it to deliver condition SNH economic, health and learning benefits Increase in the number of 11256 11,512 5% annual participants in (2007/08) 11256 12603 13,292 reviewed 3 increase ranger guided THC walks and events Increase the number of 5842 participants in the annual (2007/08) 5842 5008 6148 6,500 annual Highland 3 increase THC Archaeology Fortnight At least maintain CPHB - 24 the number of local (2 year total) 22 biodiversity Landfill (2006/07) 24 24 24 Maintain projects Communities 3 THC Fund - 6 (2009) No. of recorded 30 reported 82 reported 24 38 crimes 68 crimes Increase wildlife crimes and incidents incidents; incidents 203 201 incidents = expected until incident and Amend: 24 no incidents 74% confidence in

12. 2 detection rate reported 83% estimated 60.5% detection reporting detection detection detection rate levels can be (2006/07) rate rate reached. NC available Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The proportion of features in favourable condition on designated site in Highland was 77.4% at the end of March 2011 which represents a small decline from 78% in 2009/10. It is a complicated picture with lots of variables at play but this reduction equates to a net reduction of about 20 more features being deemed to be in unfavourable condition. The sites which are unfavourable haven’t stayed the same – the picture is constantly changing. During 2010/11 there was an improvement in the condition of 56 features within Highland. This improvement was due to a number of factors including the introduction of positive management measures. We also saw a reduction in the condition of 60 features. The reasons for this reduction are varied and there are no easy patterns to draw from the statistics. For some of the features there is no on site remedy. For example sea bird numbers have declined at some locations where the designated site itself is not the issue. Instead there are off-site issues which cannot be easily tackled such as the effects of global warming. If we remove these sites from the Highland figures the percentage of features in favourable condition rises to 82.7%. Interestingly the drop seen in Highland is less than the drop reported for Scotland as a whole where the percentage of features in favourable condition decreased from 78% to 77.2%.

The recording of wildlife crime and incidents has been reviewed and improved and there is now a designated officer in place within the Cairngorm National Park boundaries. Anticipated that rates will increase as improved systems take effect, the target will then be reviewed when there is confidence reporting has stabilised.

12.E.5 The past year has seen a significant increase in the number of recorded wildlife crimes (from 38 to 68 crimes) and incidents have been at a similar level to the previous year (201 incidents). There has been an increase in the number of instances involving the poisoning of birds of prey, often using the chemical Carbofuran. Police carried out an intelligence-led operation on an estate in the Inverness area, as a result of which two men have been reported in connection with various alleged offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and alleged firearms offences. This operation involved officers working closely with partners at the RSPB, SSPCA and the National Wildlife Crime Unit. Local outcome 12.F Increase the number of schools Carbon emissions are achieving Eco reduced and School bronze 20 communities are award. (2006/07) 36 89 123 138 3 120 protected from the THC consequences of changing weather patterns Increase the number of schools 12 achieving Eco (2006/07) 18 62 106 136 3 67 School silver THC award. Increase the 8 13 28 42 70 3 25

12. 3 number of schools (2006/07) achieving Eco THC School Green Flag status. Narrative on progress on Local Outcome At August 2011, 201 (93%) of Highland’s 216 schools had an Eco Schools award, with only 15 schools (7%) yet to achieve. 12 dedicated Eco-Schools web pages have been developed on the Council’s web site. The pages can be found at: www.highland.gov.uk/ecoschools

12. 4

National Outcome 12 -We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations (contributing to NO 2)

Local Outcome 12.E Our natural Heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health and learning benefits.

Photo of the new bench at the rock room Scottish Natural Heritage is redeveloping the visitor and interpretative facilities at Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve (NNR). Knockan Crag, 13 miles north of Ullapool, on the edge of Sutherland, is a site of global importance to geologists. Interpretation of the geology and landscape was installed in early 2000, providing a ‘world class’ experience through the ‘Rock Room’ visitor centre and a series of trails to key geology and art. To extend the experience through the North West Highlands, a ‘Rock Route’ trail was devised, leading visitors by car through the area with interpretative panels at key geologically interesting stops. Approximately 20,000 people stop at Knockan Crag.

In consultation with the local community, and in particular the North West Highlands Geopark, both are now being refreshed and added to and being made suitable for all abilities. The project has funded from Leader as well as Bord na Gaelic as this will be the first interpretative experience that is fully dual language (English-Gaelic).

Photo of new Geologists model to go at the The careful interpretation of some difficult geological concepts is well received by both visitors and local bench. communities, especially school groups. Learning through discovery is a key theme at the NNR and on the Rock Route. The provision of an outdoor experience, including a series of paths, contributes to the health of visitors at the site. As well as being bi-lingual there are also translations of audio and video into 5 European languages.

The work also contributes to National Outcome 2 through the employment of local people to do the work and through boosting tourism in the area.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Scottish Natural Heritage; Highland LEADER.

12. 5

Local Outcome 12E Our natural heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health and learning benefits. (contributing to LO D)

Great Glen Canoe Trail New Pontoon Dochgarroch Lock This British Waterways Scotland project, with partners has enabled the building of the first Scottish Canoe Trail. This complements the previously built Great Glen Way (Opened 2002) and the Great Glen Mountain Bike trails (2008). Project commenced March 2010 with British Waterways as the host organisation, and secured additional European Highlands & Islands Partnership Programme funds for a £606k project. Key elements of the project were installation of: Canoe hitches, formalised car parking, changing screens and storage at particular sites, specific canoe access, canoe trail signage, portage trolleys, defined portage routes, trail blazers rests, interpretative plan, trail leaflet, web site, guide book, branding and style guide, promotional DVD, marketing plan and initiatives and completing with a launch event in March 2012. To date the project completed the installation of all 20 pontoons, including the signage, access slipways and ramps to each and 12 of the 24 interpretative panels that show exit and entry points along the canal. The agreements to install trail blazers rests on land that does not belong to the host and purchase of and securing 10 portage trolleys. Twitter and face book sites have been developed, the guide book, trail guide, New exit and entry signs at canal sides DVD and web sites were completed by October 2010. Preliminary marketing will be taking place at Paddle 11 (Perth Scotland) in October 2011, Black Isle Show in August 2011 and the National Outdoor Show in London January 2012. The Project is progressing well; it is well received from paddlers, guides and rental companies alike who are supporting the project with some actively involved. Project commitment and spend is on target and is delivering for the completion in March 2012. The completion event, a 3 day event of media launch, and workshops is being co hosted with the Scottish Canoe Association. It is expected to be well attended with the launch being supported by a key international and national kayaker Jane Curgenven.

Partner Organisations & Lead Officers: British Waterways Scotland; The Highland Council; Forestry Commission; Scottish Natural Heritage; Scottish Canoe Association.

12. 6 Local Outcome 12E Our natural heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health and learning benefits

Eathie Display During the summer term the theme of the Glenurquhart Primary Seven topic was “Healthy Outdoors”. One of the aims of this topic was to encourage the pupils to learn about their local environment and to give them a focus it was decided that they could work toward a John Muir Award which would be done in partnership with the Abriachan Forest Trust. To qualify for a John Muir Award the participant has to Discover a wild area or areas, Explore, Conserve and Share what they have learnt. The pupils carried out research on John Muir in Glenurquhart Community Library and they also attended a mammal identification workshop, a red squirrel workshop and a rocks and fossils workshop in the library. After the workshops the pupils had a series of I.D. tasks to perform which they did in trios and then they had to justify their answers to the rest of the class. This developed their observational skills. For their school trip they were taken to Eathie beach in the Black Isle to study the rocks and to look for fossils. During the walk down to the beach they prepared a list of wild flowers. The poet Ken Cockburn came with the children to Eathie. He spoke to them before the trip and worked with them on the shore. When they returned to school Ken facilitated a poetry writing workshop for the children. Their poems are now displayed in Glenurquhart Library with Lost and Found some of the rocks and fossils collected from Eathie. On the last day of term, the awards were presented to all the children by Batistino Piras, the Glenurquhart High School eco-champion who encouraged the children to take an active role in the High School eco- committee when they join the school in August The children all wrote letters to the library staff, Suzanne from the Abriachan Forest Trust and Batistino who helped with the Eathie trip and the mini-beast mansion.

Callum wrote:“I enjoyed learning about wildlife and fossils and using the knowledge on the trips. I have learnt a lot about tracks of wild creatures and how to identify them.”

George wrote “I enjoyed the walk and searching for fossils”

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Christine Matheson, Glenurquhart Library; Glenurquhart Primary School; Abriachan Forest Trust.

12. 7

Local Outcome: 12E Our natural heritage is protected and enhanced enabling it to deliver economic, health and learning benefits

Highland Historic Environment Record Aerial view of Craig Phadrig hill fort, the subject of a new education pack developed in partnership with Local indicators: Increase and encourage the contribution of local communities to recording their heritage. Forestry Commission Scotland Working with our local and national partners to deliver high quality and up to date historic environment information to our users. The Highland Historic Environment Record has been developed by The Highland Council’s Planning and Development Service over a period of some 25 years. It currently contains details of well over 50,000 archaeological sites, finds, historic buildings, landscapes and other features of cultural heritage value. The HER also includes details of all designated listed buildings, scheduled monuments, historic battlefields and designed landscapes. It has a wide range of uses for development management, conservation, interpretation, tourism, education, community development and academic research.

The Highland HER website http://her.highland.gov.uk/ was launched in August 2008 to provide an online Community excavations at Nybster Broch, Caithness, platform for delivering the vast amounts of information held in the Historic Environment Record to a wider one of a number of current community projects featured audience. Since the website was launched a growing number of organisations and individuals have been on the Highland HER website. Photo © AOC Archaeology Group making use of the resource. The website currently attracts an average of more than 1400 unique visitors every month. The key to ensuring the protection and enhancement of the built environment and cultural heritage of the Highlands is to educate and inform. By making our records freely available we are raising the awareness of individuals and communities to the assets they have in their local areas. This openness also encourages a two way flow of information which is vital for ensuring that places of local, regional and national significance are recorded and thereby protected for future generations.

Partners and Lead Officer: Sylvina Tilbury, The Highland Council; Our partners include Scottish Government agencies, historic environment professionals in the commercial and academic sectors, charities and community organisations, as well as the large number of private individuals whose contributions are invaluable. Examples: Historic Scotland, Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland, Archaeology for Community in the Highlands, North of Scotland Archaeological Society, Historic Assynt, Caithness Archaeological Trust, to name but a few.

12. 8

National Outcome 13 We take pride in a strong fair and inclusive national identity Tha sinn moiteil à dearbh-aithne nàiseanta làidir, chothromach is in-ghabhaltach

Planning work on the Council’s second generation Gaelic Language Plan 2012-16 commenced in 2010-11. The Council prepared Scotland’s first statutory Gaelic Language Plan in 2007 under the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005; and this second generation Gaelic Language Plan builds on the ambition and implementation of that first generation Plan. Regular consultation on the Draft Plan has been undertaken with Highland Council Members and with partner organisations.

The Highland Council is the largest provider of Gaelic Education; and organises a wide range of community related Gaelic development activity for young people and adults. The Council organises Gaelic Adult Learning opportunities for over 200 people. Participants include the parents of children in Gaelic Education across Inverness, Aviemore, Nairn, Drumnadrochit, Balnain, Lochaber, Dingwall, Portree, Achamore, Plockton and Sleat. This work is ongoing and, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, is targeted for expansion. The Council also provides an education resource supply and information service for the schools network; and organises a range of events and activities aimed at using Gaelic in informal, everyday situations. The Council also provides a professional Gaelic Translation Service which is used internally and externally and which will be considered for shared service expansion within the lifetime of the Plan.

The Council has Memoranda of Understanding with the Provincial Government of Nova Scotia and with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and maintains positive relations in furtherance of Gaelic with the Scottish Government, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, sister Authorities and with Gaelic and non Gaelic related organisations across Highland and Scottish public life. The Council has also built a wide range of partnerships across the Gaelic language arts media and cultural landscape; and campaigned successfully to secure Freeview transmission for BBC ALBA. The Council supports the Royal National Mod through a Service Delivery Contract with An Comunn Gàidhealach. This was signed in 2010 and provides for Royal National Mods taking place within Highland in 2014, 2017 and 2020. The 2010 Royal National Mod took place in the Caithness area, the events and competitions were based in the towns of Thurso and Wick. This was the first time that a Royal National Mod was held in the Caithness area, and it was a tremendous success. The Council also supports the Blas Festival and the Fèisean movement; and all of these events and initiatives contribute to the educational, cultural and economic wellbeing of the Highlands.

The proportion of people in Highland describing themselves as well disposed to Gaelic declined slightly to 36.2% in 2010/11 compared to 38% in 2009/10 (baseline 41% in 2007/8) although this is higher than the percentage speaking Gaelic. As outlined above, the Council’s Gaelic Language Plan 2012-16 is under development and is expected to be considered by The Highland Council around March 2012; prior to approval by Bòrd na Gàidhlig. A series of eight public consultation meetings will be delivered in October 2011 in order to facilitate public input

13. 1 to the revised plan. As mentioned above, the Council supports the Blas Festival and positive feedback from customers at the Festival has increase to 92% - well above the target range of 70-80% in 2010/11 compared to 88% for 2009/10 (87% in 2008/9). Funding levels for the Feis movement were maintained at just above £89K.

Progress at March 2011 on Local Outcomes Progress at Progress at Progress at Progress at Status at Local Outcome Indicators Baseline Targets March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 end 2010/11 Local Outcome 13.A Increase the % Baseline clients accessing Baseline to be could not be People across the Council services set under established – n/a n/a n/a Highlands have access through the (2008/09) development recommend * to the services they medium of Gaelic THC remove need indicator Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The Highland Council is currently refreshing its Gaelic Language Plan and this will provide an opportunity to review Gaelic related performance indicators. Local Outcome 13.C Increase % people in the Highlands 41% Our communities take a describing 10% (2007/08) 41% 38% 41.3% 36.2% greater role in shaping themselves as x increase their future “well disposed” THC towards Gaelic Positive customer 92% feedback on Blas (high not seen 60-80% Festival as sustainable) 92.0% 87.0% 88.0% 92.0% 3 range on- (2007/08) going THC Festivals supported by the 60.00% Council more than (2007/08) 60.0% 67.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 3 years old at least 3 THC maintain % seats sold Narrative on progress on Local Outcome The Highland Council is currently refreshing its Gaelic Language Plan and this will provide an opportunity to review Gaelic related performance indicators.

13. 2

National Outcome 13 We take pride in a strong fair and inclusive national identity

Local Outcome 13C Our communities take a greater role in shaping their future

The 2010 Royal National Mod (RNM) took place in the Caithness area, the events and competitions were based in the towns of Thurso and Wick. This was the first time that a RNM was held in the Caithness area, and it was considered a success. The Council’s Gaelic Team, TEC Services, ECS, Chief Executives and the Public Relations staff all liaised and worked with the Mod Local Organising Committee and An Comunn Gàidhealach (ACG) to ensure that the event was a success in the area. The Council in partnership with FUJITSU sponsored a competition and also provided media support for the event. Members’ were invited to award prizes, and trophies to winning competitors. The Deputy Provost of Inverness also announced at an ACG press conference that Inverness and surrounding area would be hosting the RNM 2014.The event attracted sponsorship from amongst others the Royal Bank of Scotland, UKAEA Decommissioning and Caledonian-MacBrayne. The Council provided financial support, resources and advice in relation to venues and further support in relation to the decoration and preparation of the town. A total of 6673 people attended events and competitions, the Caithness Mod attracted a higher percentage of first time visitors and competitors than for previous Mods. The Council worked with ACG to develop a Service Delivery Contract (SLA) which outlines and details the duties and responsibilities of both organisations when the Mod is based in the Highlands. ACG commissioned an Evaluation Report, and interviewed 350 who attended the event. The report highlighted that Gaelic groups in the area and the Gaelic language in general benefited from the event. Those concerned with expanding the use of the language had been active in organising tuition; a new local Feis had been established; the event had provided a huge stage upon which to perform; and the survey findings indicated that those interested in learning to speak the language had found their attendance at the Mod a very positive influence. In addition, while the impact on local creative industries was less, the Mod had generated amongst the residents a new self confidence and pride in the area. The business community, public sector organisations and the voluntary sectors all worked in partnership to ensure that the Mod was a success not only for the competitors, but also for the residents and the visitors to the area. The Caithness Mod did show areas of Caithness, as it was broadcast world wide by the media, for example BBC Alba and it was streamed live on BBC Radio nan Gàidheal.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: John MacLeod, John Morrison, An Comunn Gàidhealach; Kenny Murray. Morag Anna MacLeod, The Highland Council

13. 3 National Outcome 14 We reduce the local and global environmental impact of our consumption and production Tha sinn a’ lùghdachadh na buaidh ionadail is chruinneil a tha aig a’ chaitheamh is an dèanatais againn

Currently all of the indicators against this outcome relate to Council activity. They show progress overall apart from in waste management, although the move to alternate weekly bin collections should improve recycling performance from 2011/12. The Council’s Carbon Management Plan is currently under review to cover the period to 2020 and to ensure alignment with Scottish Government targets.

In 2010/11 the CPP reviewed the partnership arrangements for delivering against this outcome and that will lead to the adoption of new indicators and wider partnership engagement. Notable partnership activity in 2010/11 included the development of a regional declaration on climate change facilitated through the partnership Environment Forum for Highland. 22 Highland organisations from the public, private and voluntary sector have signed up to the Highland Climate Change Declaration committing to: • Measure their carbon footprint and reduce it by 3% per year • Provide an annual update of progress • Share information and work with partners in Highland to promote good practice. • Encourage businesses and communities to take action.

In 2011/12, there is a target to increase the number of signatories by 30 organisations. The declaration includes Highland specific acknowledgements, has a robust monitoring framework around it and is open to all organisations no matter of size, function or sector.

In the first annual monitoring report for 2010/11, the group has collectively saved 1660 tonnes C02 through actions taken. The process of measuring and monitoring emissions in a partnership context has highlighted a number of issues that will now lead to the development of a unified approach across the sectors. Completion of a self assessment matrix has enabled signatories to compare progress and build on the experiences of others. A number of joint actions have been delivered including purchasing electric vehicles, sharing of premises, conferences, events and provision of advice and support to communities.

Signatories of the declaration acknowledge that the weather impacts of a changing climate may differ in Highland from elsewhere in the UK and Europe. Current weather impacts have been explored and shared through a Local Climate Impact Profile. Partners are now contributing to the development of a land use change community dialogue toolkit by SNH and work is ongoing to identify issues and priorities of climate impacts for Highland communities

14. 1 For adaptation, the Council’s draft strategy has completed public consultation with implementation planned from September 2011. Performance is scrutinised at the Council’s Climate Change Working Group.

The Highland Council is proactively engaged in ensuring that communities are protected from the consequences of changing weather patterns. Flood prevention orders have been effectively used to put in place appropriate prevention schemes across Highland. The new Flood Act is in place with streamlined procedures. Flood Act Regulations under development The Council has responded to consultations on the proposal regulations including the Potentially Vulnerable Areas and the Local Plan Districts.

The Highland Council is supporting communities wishing to build resilience to anticipated climate change and weather impacts. Gairloch and Loch Ewe are developing a community-led climate change adaptation action plan with assistance from the Highland Council. Following the lessons learned, a template and toolkit will be created and made available to other Highland communities to help them to explore the issues, assess their vulnerability to climate change and develop actions to prepare for and build resilience to such changes.

The installed capacity of renewables has increased from a 2006/7 baseline of 506MW to 1297.41 MW in 2010/11. The Council has prepared draft planning guidance for onshore wind energy to help steer development. The Crown Estate leases in the Pentland Firth are being taken forward by their respective developers and other leases are being brought forward around Highland coastline. Some wave and tidal devices are in testing e.g. at EMEC. The Council has engaged with developers and stakeholders in visioning for onshore implications of marine renewables and published an Action Plan. Offshore wind developers are preparing their proposals. Scottish & Southern Electric (SSE) is preparing proposals for grid upgrades and HVDC infrastructure.

Progress at March 2011 on Local Outcomes

Progress at Progress Progress at Progress at Progress at 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline March 2011 to March 2008 March 2009 March 2010 targets 2010/11 Local Outcome 14.F Reduce energy use in Council buildings Carbon emissions are by 15% reduced and 158.7GWh communities are (2004/05) 138.8 GWh 135.0 GWh 128.4 GWh 132.9 GWh 3 134.9 GWh protected from the THC consequences of changing weather patterns Reduce CO2 49,576 emissions (tonnes) (2004/05) 44,057 42,539 41,794 41,794 3 42,140 tonnes from Council THC

14. 2 buildings by 15% Maintain CO2 emissions from 7084 street lighting while (2004/05) 7065 7193 7202 7192 = 7013 street lighting THC network increases Increase paper recycling facilities 2142 in Council offices - 2008/09 n/a 2142 2221 2500 Increase number of staff 3 (THC) with access to recycling facilities Increase installed capacity of 506 megawatts renewable energy 1280 (2005) 689.27MW 819.45MW 930.37MW 1,297.41MW in suitable 3 megawatts THC locations in the Highlands Decrease the % of 73.90% waste that is land (2006/07) 68.80% 66.80% 65.00% 65.7% X 60% filled THC Increase % waste 26.10% recycled (2006/07) 30.7%* 32.7%* 34.6%* 34.0% X 40% THC Preliminary design New Flood work underway for Act in place FPOs for: Mill burn, Initial and the Dell Burn and design work Council Culloden in carried out Flood has Inverness area, and Orders in Preliminary Preliminary responded River Enrick in projects place for design work for design work to Drumnadrochit, being River Ness 8 schemes for 8 3 River Thurso, River considered downstream consultations THC schemes Lochy and Caol as part of of Ness on the and Wick River. the capital Bridge. proposed Completion dates programme regulations TBC review. including the Potentially Vulnerable

14. 3 Areas and the Local Plan Districts Demonstrable progress against the requirements of Score of 22 Score 35 the Scottish Local out of 30 Score of 24 Score of 35 n/a n/a out of 35 Authority Climate (2008) out of 35 out of 35 C

Change THC Declaration (self- assessment) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome *Amended to verified final data sets as reported to Audit Scotland

14. 4

National Outcome 14 We reduce the local and global environmental impact of our consumption and production

Local Outcome 14F Carbon emissions are reduced and communities are protected from the consequences of changing weather patterns

The Highland Climate Change declaration was developed by the Highland Environmental Forum, a sub- group of the Community Planning Partnership made up of private, public and voluntary sector representatives. On the 2nd of June, 2010, fourteen organisations signed up to the Highland Climate Change Declaration at a partnership event held at Great Glen House (SNH headquarters) in Inverness. A monitoring framework commits signatories to:

- Measure their carbon footprint and reduce it by 3% per year - Provide an annual update of progress - Share information and work with partners in Highland to promote good practice. - Encourage businesses and communities to take action.

The Highland Environment Network (HEN) a voluntary organisation representing individuals, communities and groups interested in environmental issues in Highland has piloted a project in 2011 to encourage individuals in Highland to make a similar pledge to take action to tackle climate change. This project was made possible with funding available from the Climate Challenge Fund and the findings will be fed back to the Highland Environment Forum with a view to extending the declaration to individuals and communities.

In 2011, 13 organisations provided feedback in the first annual report, collectively saving 1660 tonnes to C02 emissions in the financial year 2010/11. There was great variation in the % emissions savings between the different organisations but no single organisation increased emissions in the period April 2010 to March 2011. The strongest area of performance was “Acknowledging Climate Change” which demonstrates that Highland organisations are committed to tackling the issue. The weakest area was around “Staff Training”. 0pportunities exist for organisations to share knowledge and expertise in this area. Not all organisations were able to provide data or only partial/estimated data which suggests that more support and advice is required. The next step will be to develop a unified approach to scope and methodology across all signatories and explore more areas for joint action. By July 2011, 21 Signatories had signed up to the Declaration.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Ailsa Villegas, The Highland Council; George Hogg, Scottish Natural Heritage; Jenny Sleeman, Highland Environment Network.

14. 5 Local Outcome 14F Carbon emissions are reduced and communities are protected from the consequences of changing weather patterns

Householders in Highland are already feeling the benefit of a programme to potentially make their homes warmer and help save money on energy bills. Working with Energy Saving Trust, and the Highland Energy Partnership, involving Scottish Power a scheme of insulation upgrading has been rolled out as part of a Scottish Government funded package that will improve the energy performance of the houses in Badenoch & Strathspey, East Sutherland and Skye. A range of householders have benefited from cavity and loft insulation and have been offered free advice on how to reduce bills and save energy. Energy audits have been carried out in the homes and bill savings of £100-£150 per year have been made. Carbon savings of the programme is in the region of 867Tonnes has been achieved along with annual bill savings of £176, 000 across all households.

Annual Bill Saving (Est.) WARD Tenure Total 5 11 21 Total Homeowner 2366 Grand Total £36,550 £54,500 £85,200 £176,250 Tenant (private) 223 Not Known 140 Tenant (LA) 42 CO2 Annual Saving (tonnes) Ward Total Landlord 28 5 11 21 Other 2 Grand Total 177.00 284.46 406.48 867.93 Tenant (Social Housing) 2

Grand Total 2803

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Karen MacLean, The Highland Council; Energy Saving Trust.

14. 6 National Outcome 15 Our public services are high quality, continually improving, efficient and responsive to local people’s needs Tha na seirbheisean poblach againn àrd inbheach, a’ leasachadh gu leantainneach, èifeachdach agus freagairteach do dh’fheumalachdan an t-sluaigh ionadail

The focus in contributing to this national outcome is the demonstration of Best Value and continuous improvement, taking account of customers’ views and improving access to public services and ensuring our workforce is the right size, skilled, supported and rewarded fairly. The Council is implementing the Public Service Improvement Framework (PSIF) to drive continuous improvement in the organisation and it is to be piloted with CPP Partners for Employability in 2011.

Work is well underway by The Council and NHS Highland around Planning for Integration to develop of a Lead Agency Model in Highland for Care Services. The proposed model involves single Lead Agency arrangements with the Council leading for Integrated Children’s Services and NHS Highland leading for Adult Care Services. Both organisations will be jointly accountable for determining outcomes and the resources to be committed. The Lead Agency would assume responsibility for all aspects of business delivery, strategy, internal governance and operational delivery or commissioning of services and would be fully accountable for the delivery of agreed outcomes. The Lead Agency arrangements would be supported by pooled budgets in which the total resources for the care of a defined population are integrated in one organisation to either commission and/or provide the care for that population. The change is planned to deliver better outcomes for service users.

During 2010/11 examples of good practice in the development of co-location of front office services were being taken forward in Highland including the integration of Service Point and Library Services and shared front offices with three police stations. We have also integrated the Registration and Service Point function at five key locations. In July 2011 Customer Services achieved the Customer Service Excellence which is awarded to Councils and Organisations providing a first class customer service. The Assessor report highlighted that partnership working is excellent and considerable effort is made to care for respective communities.

To build on this work the partnership has agreed a joint approach to Asset Management and the Council’s Deputy Chief Executive & Director of Housing & Property has been tasked with leading the development work. The partnerships agreed that this would ensure that enhance value from Land and Property assets is achieved with improvements in estate planning, investment & rationalisation. The approach will facilitate service integration, reduce assets costs and develop a concept of a Single Public Sector Estate. In order to achieve this the partnership have agreed the following actions: Top Level Commitment to an Asset Management Partnership for Public Sector in the Highlands To establish a Property Group and commit relevant partners decision makers

15. 1 Agreed to share Programmes and Resources Agreed to support Information Sharing (including asset mapping) Seek co-location opportunities Consider potential for sharing services

Overall the picture for 2010/11 is of improved performance with some areas of improvement: The Council is maintaining fulfilment of customer contact dealt with at the first point of contact at 92.5% (88% in 2009/10). The net score rating of the Council in maintaining good quality local services has increased further during 2010/11 to 52% (from baseline of 40% in 2006/07). The satisfaction level with Council services has reached 85% the highest recorded level of satisfaction continuing a high level trend of positive feedback from the public.

Following extensive engagement with the public in 2010/11 on budget consultation a significant improvement in the public’s rating of the Council on the statement that “the Council listens to local people” which has moved from a negative net score (-1) to a positive net score of 11. The proportion of school inspections receiving positive inspection reports has improved during 2010/11 to 94.7% the highest level since the baseline of 88% was established in 2006/07. The Council continues to meet its efficiency targets with £8.961m achieved in 2010/11 against a target of £8M.

Progress at March 2011 on Local Outcomes

Progress Status at Progress at Progress at Progress at 2010/2011 Local Outcome Indicators Baseline at March end March 2009 March 2010 March 2011 targets 2008 2010/11 Local Outcome 15.D Proportion of >90% schools 88.0% re-profiled Public service are (inspected) (2006/07) 90.0% 85.2% 90.9% 94.7% following delivered effectively, receiving positive 3 THC change in efficiency and jointly inspection reports methodology (academic year) Increase the number of internal and external services (as 52.0% defined by the (2006/07) 52.0% 52.0% 55.0% 55.0% 90.0% customer First 46 X THC ESD targets) to be dealt with at 1st point of contact to customers through

15. 2 the Customer Services Network. Alignment of Little capital programme progress of public sector achieved as programmes from capital levels 2009/10 reducing and 5 public most already bodies Partnership committed. Gateway dates working work started Instead to to be n/a n/a towards 2009/10 develop = confirmed by aligned THC/CPP proposals for April 2011 capital an asset programmes management partnership for the public sector in the Highlands. At least maintain the public rating of 40% net score the Council in 47% net 51% net 52% net At least 40% (2007) n/a maintaining good score score score 3 net score THC quality local services At least sustain 80% very or satisfaction levels fairly satisfied 82.0% 83.0% 83.0% 85.0% 80%+ with Council (2006/07) 3 services THC Continuous improvement in score =8 Reviewed NHS QIS clinical Remove from (2006/07) n/a n/a score=10 ceased last governance and * future reports NHSH data 09/10 risk management standards Achieve 85% fulfilment of 90.50% customer contact (2006/07) 91.0% 90.0% 88.0% 92.5% 3 At least 85% dealt with at first THC point of contact via

15. 3 customer services network. (more calls to be routed through the customer services network as more functions are included) Improve rating on Net score agreement with -2 Net score Net score the statement that Positive score (2007) n/a 0 -1 11 3 “the Council listens THC to local people” Anyone contacting their GP surgery has guaranteed 99% * no info access to a GP, 92.9% (Sep-07) n/a 96.4% currently 100% nurse or other (Revised) * NHSH available healthcare professional within 48 hours All urgent referrals 98.4% Note data for cancer will 95.70% revised includes Argyll 95.6% 98% receive treatment (Jun-07) 96% (Jan-Mar & Bute (Jan-Mar 09) (Jan-Mar 11) 3 within two months NHSH 10) 95% (Revised) (Revised) No patient will wait longer than 12 15 wks 12 wks 12 wks 15 wks 12 wks Zero (100%) weeks from GP 100% achieved 5 Patients 100% 100% 100% Target referral to first (Apr-08) waited achieved for 3 achieved achieved achieved outpatient NHSH longer all referrals appointment All efficiency target £8m £6.52m HC Target £8m Target £8m targets met – and (2006/07) £7.492m and £8.262 and £8.961 2% p.a. Highland Council £8.201m 3 THC achieved achieved achieved At least maintain 10.6 days n/a NEW SPI or reduce the (2008/09) SPI 10.6 days 11.6 days 10.5days 3 definition average number of THC definition Reduce

15. 4 working days lost changed per employee through sickness absence (excludes teachers) At least maintain or reduce the average number of 6.2 days n/a NEW SPI working days lost teachers SPI 6.2 days 7.3 days 6.4 days definition per employee (2008/09) definition X Reduce through sickness THC changed absence (teachers) NHS staff sickness 4.69% 4% by

to be no more than (Revised) March 2010 4.47% 4.33% 4.20% 4.18% 4% by March 2009 2006 3 (amended from (Revised) (Revised) (Revised) NHSH March 2009) Narrative on progress on Local Outcome In relation to Increasing the number of internal and external services (as defined by the customer First 46 ESD targets) to be dealt with at 1st point of contact to customers through the Customer Services Network. This relates to the pace at which the Council has been able to shift services into Service Centre Management. There is significant development work on-going as the Council reviews the Customer Engagement and Assessment work streams which are part of the Corporate Improvement Programme. This is due to begin rolling out a further 200 business processes from August 2011

All urgent referrals for cancer will receive treatment within 2 months – The target has been revised to show 95%. There has been positive progress for this target and the target has been exceeded.

No patient will wait longer than 12 weeks from GP referral to first outpatient appointment - There has been positive progress for this target and the target has already been achieved.

NHS staff sickness to be no more than 4.5 by March 2009 - The data for the staff sickness indicator has been revised to show annual figures for each year instead of the data as at March of each year. These figures show a year on year improvement.

Not all CPP Partners report staff sickness figures. Where they are reported they are measured & performance assessed differently

15. 5

National Outcome 15 Our public services are high quality, continually improving, efficient and responsive to local people’s needs

Local Outcome 15D Public services are delivered effectively, efficiently and jointly

As part of its Transformational Change Programme for Community Care, the Social Work Service has been working with its Housing and Property, NHS Highland and Third Sector partners to develop new sustainable models of care to support people with a learning disability to remain in their own community and investing in Highland-based services to support people to move back to Highland to be closer to their families.

A number of our young people who have a learning disability or autistic spectrum disorder have been placed in schools and other establishments outside of Highland, which has meant that they are away from their families for long periods. People of other ages have also been in residential placements away from home.

A greater range of health and care services are now available here in Highland and a programme is now well underway to develop individual, personalised solutions for people, with health and care services being delivered, based around cluster or small group housing. Service users and carers have been involved at each stage of developing these arrangements.

So far, a number people have returned from out of Highland placements and are beginning to enjoy living closer to their families and communities. Housing clusters are now up and running in North Kessock, Tain and Inverness with others planned, including one at Fort William. Small group housing is also planned for Inverness. Individuals have access to a range of new opportunities including courses provided at Inverness College.

Delivering care in this way enables people to live as full and independent a life as possible whilst economies of scale can be achieved through shared caring arrangements and appropriate use of assistive technology.

To date, feedback from individuals and their carers has been very positive.

Partner Organisations and Lead Officers: Donellen Mackenzie, The Highland Council; Neil Richmond Fellowship.

15. 6

Local Outcome 15D - Public services are delivered effectively, efficiently and jointly

Forum Member Diane Holmes speaks at the The Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross Area Forum is a partnership between the Highland annual Tenants Conference Council Housing Service, tenants and representatives from tenant and resident community groups. The aim of the Forum is to share information, ideas and knowledge in order to improve the standard of housing conditions and services as well as the communities in which people live. The group meet on a quarterly basis in Brora, Sutherland and set the agenda in conjunction with the Housing Service. Membership of the group is diverse and includes representatives from the Easter Ross Sheltered Housing group who have quite specific needs which differ from mainstream tenants. The Forum gives the representatives a platform for raising the profile of sheltered housing and more importantly the needs of the tenants. . All meetings include up-to-date information on housing policy, consultations and developments within the service. Input from tenants and representatives of Tenants/Residents groups are vital to support ongoing improvements to the housing service. The Forum provides tenants who have specific interest in housing development and strategy to become involved at another level. A Shelted Housing tenants at the annual number of Forum members have taken part in a ‘repairs and maintenance’ focus group to help Tenants Conference further improve this particular area of housing service. Tenants identified a wide range of issues which have helped to influence the Council’s revised Repairs and Maintenance policy. Another group of tenants took part in a focus group to discuss ‘New Build within the Housing Service and the Impact on Rents’. Two tenants produced a detailed written report of their feedback from the focus group and the information will be used to inform future developments within Council house new build. One member of the Forum is Chairperson of the Regional Network which provides a direct link to Scottish Government on housing and regeneration policy. Information is then shared at the Area Forum meetings to give tenants an opportunity to feed into Government policy where appropriate. The Forum provides an avenue for tenants to have a voice on issues which affect their everyday life from community development to specific areas of the housing service. The examples given above provide a snapshot of the type of input which tenants have, thus developing community capacity building, confidence, training and development. Partnership working with tenants and housing service allows staff to respond to the needs of the local community.

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Tina Luxton, The Highland Council; Registered Tenants Organisations; Residents Groups; Interested Tenants.

15. 7 Local Outcome D: Public services are delivered effectively, efficiently and jointly

The new £7 million Milton of Leys Primary School, Inverness was handed over to The Highland Council by Morrison Construction in July 2011 in time for the school opening in August 2011. The new school has been designed to support delivery of the Scottish Government’s ‘Curriculum for Excellence’. With 11 classrooms, a community room and wraparound childcare. The school design is flexible, providing the option for further classrooms to be added in the future. Provost Jimmy Gray, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Inverness City Committee, said: “The new building will not only offer a modern learning and teaching environment, but will also relieve the pressure on Inshes primary school. It is a top quality facility which will meet the aspirations of the pupils, their families and the whole community.” The school will be one of the first in the Highlands to have a wireless network solution built in throughout the school. This will allow pupils and staff to embed Head teacher, Mr. Quigley’s vision for “any time” access to online learning Progress was made on three other new primary schools during 2010/11. Contracts were awarded for the schools at Aviemore and Lochaline with both due to be completed in May 2012. Tenders were received for the new Ben Wyvis Primary (Conon Bridge/Maryburgh) which will open in August 2012.

During 2010/11 extensions at Farr Primary (Inverness), Kilchuimen Primary and Roy Bridge Primary were completed along with the refurbishment of Milton Primary at Kildary. The extension and refurbishment of Aldourie Primary started and is due for completion in May 2012. An extension to the PPP School at Bun- Sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis (the Gaelic Primary School in Inverness) was also completed.

Of the two remaining secondary schools scheduled for refurbishment, Phases 1 and 2 of the redevelopment of Lochaber High were completed at a total cost of £15,700,000, and the refurbishment works at Wick High were also completed. Work started at Plockton High and is due to be completed in April 2012. Although the refurbishment of the CLASP building at Thurso High School was completed previously, the remaining work to the entrance area will be carried out in 2012/13.

Work started on the new pupil hostel at Ullapool High which will be completed in October 2011

Partner Organisations & Leader Officers: Education, Culture and Sport, Housing & Property, The Highland Council, Pupils, Parent Councils: Community Councils; various construction companies.

15. 8