Initiative to foster rural tourism launches
A programme to help community development organisations and social enterprises support the sustainable recovery of rural Scotland’s tourism sector has been launched.
People working in community development with an interest in tourism can apply for one of 15 places on the Communities Leading in Tourism initiative starting in late September and running until December.
The 12-day programme aims to give participants insight into the complexities of the tourism sector, including exploring the challenges and opportunities faced following the Covid-19 pandemic.
It also marks the second of three intakes of candidates for theground-breakingpilotprogramme developed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE).
Douglas Cowan, director of communities and place at HIE, said: “When we developed this programme, we wanted to build a Scotland-wide network of community leaders connecting local development and tourism. Engaging communities is an essential part of developing sustainable tourism going forward.”
SOSE chair Russel Griggs said: “This programme will not only help equip community organisations obtain vital knowledge and leadership skills, but it will also enable them to successfully support local activity to safely welcome visitors back.”
The Social Enterprise Academy is delivering the programme including online sessions and three two-day residential tourism visits in Skye, the Trossachs and Stranraer.