Deadline: 15-Oct-2026
The Caithness Futures Fund provides long-term community funding in Caithness, Scotland, supporting health, wellbeing, employability, and social inclusion projects. Funded by RWE through the Camster II Wind Farm, it distributes £160,000 annually and offers grants up to £20,000 per year or multi-year funding for up to 10 years. The programme prioritizes mental health, poverty reduction, access to services, and community development aligned with the Caithness Area Place Plan.
Overview of the Caithness Futures Fund
The Caithness Futures Fund is a long-term community investment programme designed to strengthen local wellbeing and development across Caithness, Scotland. It supports initiatives that improve quality of life, reduce inequality, and enhance access to essential services.
The fund is financed through community benefit contributions from the Camster II Wind Farm operated by RWE.
It aligns closely with the Caithness Area Place Plan, which reflects priorities identified through local community consultation.
Funding Details
- Annual funding: £160,000
- Funding source: Camster II Wind Farm community benefit
- Launch year: 2026
- Grant size: Up to £20,000 per year
- Multi-year support: Up to 10 years available
- Focus: Long-term, high-impact community development
Key Priority Areas
Health and Wellbeing
The fund supports projects that improve:
- Physical and mental health services
- Access to health and social care
- Community-based wellbeing initiatives
- Support for vulnerable and isolated individuals
Mental Health and Social Support
Priority is given to:
- Mental health services for all age groups
- Early intervention and prevention programmes
- Support for young people’s mental health
- Community-based counselling and peer support
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups
The fund focuses on:
- People affected by drug and alcohol misuse
- Neurodiverse young people
- Young carers
- Individuals experiencing poverty
- Socially isolated residents
Employability and Skills Development
Through the Caithness Futures Education and Training Fund, it supports:
- Job readiness programmes
- Vocational training
- Skills development initiatives
- Pathways to employment for young people and adults
Community Services and Accessibility
The fund supports:
- Improved access to health and social services
- Better community transport and connectivity
- Enhanced care-at-home services
- Accessible community spaces
Poverty Reduction and Social Inclusion
Projects may address:
- Local poverty and inequality
- Barriers to essential services
- Financial exclusion
- Community support systems
Environment and Wellbeing Access
The fund encourages:
- Access to coastal and countryside spaces
- Outdoor wellbeing and recreation activities
- Community use of natural environments
- Sustainable local development practices
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Community groups and organisations in Caithness
- Non-charitable groups meeting eligibility requirements
- Organisations delivering benefits to local residents
- Groups aligned with the Caithness Area Place Plan
Applicants must demonstrate clear community benefit.
Funding Approach and Expectations
The fund encourages:
- Multi-year and long-term projects
- Evidence of community support
- Collaboration with local partners
- Projects with measurable long-term impact
- Reduction of environmental impact and carbon footprint
Governance and Decision-Making
The fund is guided by:
- Community consultation outcomes (Caithness Area Place Plan)
- Local priorities identified by residents
- Long-term development strategies
Decision-making focuses on ensuring projects align with community needs.
Why This Fund Matters
This initiative is important because it:
- Provides long-term, stable community investment
- Addresses mental health and social inequality
- Strengthens local employment and skills
- Improves access to essential services
- Supports vulnerable and marginalized groups
- Encourages sustainable community development
Expected Outcomes
If effectively implemented, the fund will contribute to:
- Improved mental and physical wellbeing
- Increased employment and skills development
- Reduced poverty and social exclusion
- Stronger community services and infrastructure
- Better access to health and care services
- Enhanced community cohesion and resilience
Application Process Overview
Step 1: Identify Community Need
Define the local issue or opportunity aligned with fund priorities.
Step 2: Develop Proposal
Prepare project plans, outcomes, and budgets.
Step 3: Demonstrate Alignment
Show alignment with the Caithness Area Place Plan.
Step 4: Submit Application
Apply through the Caithness Futures funding process.
Step 5: Review and Decision
Applications are assessed against community priorities.
Step 6: Funding Award
Successful projects may receive up to £20,000 annually or multi-year support.
Key Strengths of the Fund
- Long-term funding stability
- Strong community-led prioritisation
- Focus on vulnerable populations
- Flexibility for small and large projects
- Emphasis on sustainability and local impact
Frequently Asked Questions
Who funds the programme?
The fund is supported by RWE through the Camster II Wind Farm.
What is the maximum grant available?
Up to £20,000 per year, with potential multi-year funding.
Who can apply?
Community groups and organisations working to benefit residents of Caithness.
Do applicants need charity status?
No, non-charitable groups may also apply if they meet eligibility criteria.
What is the main focus of the fund?
Health, wellbeing, employability, poverty reduction, and community development.
How long does funding last?
Projects may receive support for up to 10 years.
Conclusion
The Caithness Futures Fund, supported by RWE, provides long-term, community-led investment to improve health, wellbeing, and social inclusion across Caithness. By supporting vulnerable groups, strengthening services, and promoting sustainable development, it delivers lasting benefits aligned with local priorities and community needs.
For more information, visit Foundation Scotland.
