The developer of the Camster Windfarm, E.ON, is providing a Fund for the residents in the Community Council areas of:
• Latheron, Lybster and Clyth;
• Watten; and
• Tannach and District.
E.ON will contribute at least £150,000 per annum for 25 years or the lifetime of the wind farm (Year 1 of the Fund began September 2013). This amount is split equally between the three Community Council areas benefiting from the Fund.
The Fund is managed by Foundation Scotland but decisions on awards are made by a local Panel of 12 people comprising of four representatives from each of the three Community Council areas. Each four is made up of one Community Councillor and three members appointed from the wider community.
A detailed profile of the communities within the area served by the Fund has been prepared by Foundation Scotland, in partnership with Caithness Voluntary Groups and Latheron, Lybster & Clyth Community Development Company. The Profile provides information on: the social, economic and environmental status of the area; the key opportunities and challenges faced by local communities, and; the priorities and views of local residents, businesses and groups. Information from the Profile has informed the development of the Fund Priorities.
Download a copy of the community profile here.
The Panel has set the following outcomes (the differences that the Fund will seek to bring about for people and groups within the area of benefit) which will guide funding decisions to ensure the Fund delivers lasting improvements for the communities:
1. There are more and better opportunities to take part in sports and recreational pursuits
2. Access to and through settlements is safer
3. People of all ages enjoy more, better and varied activities and services
4. Community life is enhanced and maintained through a wide range of activities, events and improved amenity of settlements
5. Economic activity is encouraged within the Fund area
6. People have more vocational skills and experience
7. The natural and cultural heritage is more valued, experienced and understood by both visitors and residents
8. Energy use in homes and community buildings is more sustainable
9. Tourism opportunities are promoted and created in the Fund area
The following case studies provides examples of how the fund is making a difference to the community:
North Lands Glass
Tannach and District Microgrants
Watten Improvements Group
Bilbster and Thuster Village Hall
There are two rounds of grant-making per Fund year with the following deadlines:
| For small grants of £250 - £10,000 |
| 31 March and 30 September |
| For main grants of £10,001 - £25,000 |
| 31 March and 30 September |
| For large grants over £25,000 |
| 31 March and 30 September |
Applicants should be aware, if a funding round has been oversubscribed, there may be limited funds to distribute. In this case, it may be necessary to defer payment of the award.