Strengthening Communities Programme (SCP)
The Strengthening Communities Programme (SCP) is a Scottish Government-funded initiative.
The programme is administered by delivery partners working across Scotland and provides grants to fund a full-time post for up to three years to help organisations build capacity, develop income streams, and work toward long-term sustainability.
The programme aims to support community-anchor organisations to develop the capacity needed to build stability and resilience, and work towards long-term sustainability. It will enable organisations to develop ambitious and enterprising programmes, projects and activities where the outcomes and legacy achieved, will provide long-term benefits to local communities.
Proposals must be linked to organisational resilience, capacity and sustainability.
The SCP has four key outcome areas:
- Increased income-generating revenue streams
- Increased income through assets
- Improved organisational resilience and increased sustainability
- Increased capacity development
DTAS is a programme delivery partner.
How to Apply
Step 1: Expression of Interest – Now Closed
This is an online form which asks you to provide brief information about your organisation and to describe what you would propose to do with an SCP grant. You will also identify the outcomes you propose to achieve.
Step 2: Full Application
Expressions of Interest will be reviewed by DTAS and members who meet all criteria will be invited to complete a full application to the programme.
Eligibility
- You must be a DTAS provisional or full member.
- DTAS membership fees must be paid and up to date.
- You must not currently be a recipient of an SCP grant.
- You must not have been a recipient of an SCP grant within the last five years.
- Your proposal must meet at least two of the four programme outcomes.
Timelines
Expressions of Interest closes on Wednesday 23 September.
For members invited to submit a full application, the deadline for submission will be Sunday 11 October.
Outcomes from EOI submissions will be sent to members within a quick turnaround and ahead of the final closing date to help maximise time to complete and submit an application.
Funding
The SCP provides funding from April 2027 to March 2030.
Each year’s funding is dependent on approval following a Comprehensive Spending Review undertaken every financial year.
This means that each year the budget needs to be approved before the funding can be released.
Funding follows the financial year 01 April to 31 March.
If you would like further information or to discuss a proposal, please contact:
- Helen Morrison – Member Support Advisor (SCP): Helen@dtascot.org.uk
- Linda Stuart – Member Support Advisor (SCP): linda.stuart@dtascot.org.uk
Accessibility: Application materials can be made available in alternative formats, including large print, different languages, or other accessible formats. Please contact us to request these.