Community Ownership Support Service (COSS) - delivered through the Development Trusts Association Scotland to support the transfer of publicly held assets into community ownership. This adviser-led service includes expert advice on all aspects of asset transfer, access to training courses on asset transfer and development process, signposting to other support agencies and a comprehensive online resource giving essential information on good practice and case studies.
www.dtascommunityownership.org.uk
Development Trusts Association Scotland (DTAS) - membership of DTAS may be appropriate for some community organisations if they intend to become a development trust. This is a way of working rather than a particular type of legal governance.
www.dtascot.org.uk
Third Sector Interfaces - TSI Scotland Network is Scotland’s network of Third Sector Interfaces. Each local authority area in Scotland has a Third Sector Interface to support, promote, develop and represent the third sector. Local interface staff will advise community organisations as they progress with their plans.
www.tsi.scot
Scottish Council for Voluntary Services (SCVO)
provides information, support and training for community organisations. In particular they have a range of member services which includes payroll, training courses and useful publications.
www.scvo.org.uk
Scottish Community Alliance is an alliance of national and regional networks with community-based memberships. Their website links to 15 specialist membership support organisations ranging from land management, retail shops, renewable energy to recycling services and social enterprise.
www.localpeopleleading.co.uk
Highland and Islands Enterprise operates as the economic development agency for the north of Scotland. It can assist organisations through the Community Support programme, available to help with post acquisition and community enterprise development as well as provide funding for development in many cases.
https://www.hie.co.uk/
Scottish Enterprise operates in central and southern Scotland and can assist with developing business ideas and enterprise. They may be able to provide funding for development projects.
www.scottish-enterprise.com
Business Gateway Operating Scotland wide providing advice and training to support the development and growth of new and established businesses including social and community enterprises.
www.bgateway.com