Dunterlie: Finding ways to move forward together
Cath McNally, Programme Officer, People in Place
Earlier this week we shared the 2024 Annual Update from Dunterlie. So far, we have also shared the latest news from Blacklands in Kilwinning, Cumnock in East Ayrshire, Langlees in Falkirk, and Carbrain in Cumbernauld as part of our annual catch up with the eight communities we work alongside through People in Place.
Accompanying each update, we hear from Corra’s Cath McNally – Programme Officer on the People and Place team. Working closely with these communities, Cath will be sharing key insights, learning and themes – here’s some thoughts on what has been achieved in Dunterlie this year.
The story of Dunterlie in 2024 is one of people coming together, learning, and building confidence as a community. Over the past year, the Getting Alongside Communities programme has shown that real and lasting change happens when everyone’s voice is valued and when people work together with respect for each other’s contributions.
A key learning from Dunterlie is that strong communities are built on trust and shared purpose. The Action Group’s work on their Vision for Dunterlie has helped bring people together around a shared purpose. It isn’t just a document; it’s a way for everyone to see their ideas and hopes reflected, and it’s helping more people feel part of the decisions that shape their community.
The development of the Better Buses Barrhead Campaign has also been important in Dunterlie this year. The group’s research for the “We Need Our Bus” report gave local people an opportunity to share their views and concerns about losing their local bus service. By bringing people together to speak up, the campaign is showing how powerful it can be when a community stands together on an issue – although there is still a long way to go. It’s also helping build a new confidence in speaking out and working together to find solutions to the problems facing Dunterlie.
What’s emerging in Dunterlie is a community that is growing in confidence and connection. The process of planning and campaigning has helped people see the value in working together, learning from each other, and supporting new leaders to step forward. This has created a stronger sense of belonging and has shown that everyone’s contribution matters.
Throughout all of this, there has been a real need to be sensitive and thoughtful, especially as the community navigates change. Supporting people through periods of uncertainty and transition has required patience and understanding. It’s clear that change can bring up strong feelings, particularly when people care deeply about what’s been built. By listening carefully, encouraging open conversations, and recognising the contributions of everyone involved, Dunterlie is finding ways to move forward together. This approach is helping to build trust and ensures that no one feels left behind as the community continues to grow and adapt.
Looking ahead, the most important thing is to keep building on these relationships and to stay open to learning and change. By working together and supporting each other, Dunterlie is showing that communities can shape their own future – and that every voice matters along the way.
Further reading and related content
You can view and download all previous year’s annual updates here:
More from Cath: