The Recovery and Resilience Programme, funded by Foundation Scotland and delivered by the Development Trusts Association Scotland (DTAS), provides grants of up to £100,000 to help trusts strengthen their organisational resilience.
The programme aims to build long-term strength in development trusts by supporting improvements in governance, leadership and strategic planning — moving beyond project delivery to invest in the foundations of the organisations themselves.
So far, more than £165,000 has been awarded to four development trusts in the Greater Glasgow area.
Lambhill Stables was awarded £53,312 to develop a five-year strategy and income generation plan.
Twechar Community Action received £41,000 to appoint an interim recovery manager and engage specialist consultancy, with the aim of improving financial management, governance and operational resilience.
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust was awarded £50,171 for support across lettings, communications and fundraising as it plans for long-term sustainability beyond its current council lease.
Meanwhile, Inchinnan Development Trust received £22,250 to appoint a part-time development officer to support its transition to charitable status.
Sports pitch managed by Inchinnan Development Trust (Image: DTAS)
Maggie Morrison, operations and development manager at Inchinnan Development Trust, said: “The funding from DTAS came at a critical time, as we were navigating growing organisational demands and multiple large-scale projects.
“The grant enabled us to strengthen capacity across the organisation while bringing in experienced support.
“It’s helping us build solid foundations – from strengthening governance and progressing out charitable status to preparing for the safe operation of new facilities.
“This is an important first step, and we plan to build on this momentum to keep delivering for our community.”
The programme is open to all DTAS member organisations and offers tailored guidance alongside funding, focused on helping trusts set goals, involve their communities and improve how they are run.
Errin Anderson, head of member support at DTAS, said: “At a time when many communities are facing rising costs and increasing demand for local services, development trusts play a vital role in driving regeneration and delivering social and economic benefits to communities.
“But to do that, they themselves need a strong foundation.
“The Recovery and Resilience Programme isn’t about funding projects – it’s about helping organisations think strategically and strengthen for the long term.”
Rachel Searle, head of communications and impact at Foundation Scotland, said: “Development Trusts are often the backbone of community infrastructure, supporting social, economic, cultural and environmental activity in our communities.
“The £5 million award from Foundation Scotland last year recognised the significance of their role and represented the largest single award we have made to date.
“We are so pleased to see the announcement of the first awards from the Recovery and Resilience Programme as we’re aware that many Development Trusts are coming under increasing pressure as costs rise and the funding landscape becomes tighter.
“By supporting DTAS to establish this fund, our intention was to make an investment that would enable support for long-term strength, resilience and sustainability in communities.
“We’re delighted to see the Response and Resilience Programme creating those opportunities, supporting Development Trusts all over Scotland.”
Applications for funding are open now for DTAS members on the DTAS website, with funding available until December 31.
