Paws on Plastic
Two phases of support, one to create a 3-year action plan and a second to review marketing and communications for charity Paws on Plastic
“We were delighted with the work completed by Accelerate. The members’ survey allowed uso gain real insight into the thoughts of our members and helped give us a clear focus in terms of our next key steps.”
- Paws on Plastic
The challenge
Paws on Plastic began as a Facebook group in 2018. Based in Stonehaven, the group is based on the simple idea of using daily dog walks as an opportunity to pick up and recycle litter. It became a charity in September 2021.
As their network grew, the Trustees felt they needed a review to set short, medium and long-term priorities. They were keen to consult their members about the organisation’s priorities.
They needed to find out more about the complexities of running an Inn, particularly one in a remote location. They also had to build local momentum, whilst ensuring that they’re conducting robust community engagement.
On top of that, they then faced their first major setback when they were unsuccessful in their application to the Scottish Land Fund. This prompted the group to re-explore their goals with a more strategic and focused approach, with the help of Accelerate.
How we helped
Through Accelerate, we worked closely with the keen locals to help them find a way forward.
We firstly provided expert guidance after their Scottish Land Fund rejection, helping them understand what went wrong and what approach they could take in their next application.
We then identified key strategic areas that needed development. We supported the group to develop a fit-for-purpose business plan, recruit key staff and make key connections to other support services. We also provided practical assistance for the launch of their community share offer.
The result
£300,000 raised in community shares and match funding secured
Asset brought into community ownership
Regeneration of local economy
Increased social benefits and opportunity for the local community
Thanks to Accelerate, strong engagement and a compelling vision, the group achieved their goals in record-breaking time.
They quickly reached their community share offer goal of £300,000 This unlocked SLF match funding, enabling the purchase of the Inn.
Today, the Inn is a venue for hospitality, tourism, and creative industries; a training ground for young people; a source of income for local suppliers and a source of inspiration for wider community initiatives.
The team is keen to build on their success and are now exploring a social housing
project to address rural housing challenges, with the aim to create homes that will allow
young people and families to stay in the
community, and create further regeneration
opportunities locally.
Feeling inspired?
If you are part of a community group who is not yet trading
and would like free support to become more sustainable
and enterprising, check out our Accelerate programme.