The National Crofting Development Plan for Scotland, published around this time last year, highlighted some opportunities for training and support for rural communities, to address a range of challenges unique to rural areas. You can read the full Development Plan here.
Many of the opportunities mentioned in the report have expired, but we’ve collated some resources for ongoing opportunities and support that we hope will be helpful below. The following will not be new information to a lot of people, but hopefully there’s something useful in here for those who may be looking for some extra support. We welcome suggestions for additions to this list, and any input from our local crofting community.
Please note that NFU links have not been included, as the majority of their web content is available to members only.
Scottish Government Resources
- The Scottish Government’s Farm Advisory Service
- Scottish Government guidance on the Croft and Agricultural Grant Scheme, from the National Development Plan for Crofting
- Rural Affairs, Islands and Natural Environment Committee
- Scottish Land Fund
The Crofting Commission
SRUC
- SRUC advice and consultancy support; from optimising your crofting and growing your business, to support filling applications and forms.
- Advice from SRUC on diversifying your croft to include croft camping
- Grants and Financial Support
- 2021-22 Farm Management Handbook
Other resources:
- Rural Employers Toolkit – guidance on providing apprenticeships, placements and training in rural areas
- Shelter – Housing Grants and other financial Support for Crofters
- The Citizens’ Advice Bureau – on Crofting