Local Priority: - Improve outdoor play equipment for children

Friends of Clatto is a volunteer group who maintain much of the greenspace, walking areas, wildlife study and information points at the park. We have been working in partnership with Dundee City council Environment team to help enhance Clatto Country park for the local community. The grant will be used to improve the outdoor play equipment for children contributing to the Strathmartine local community plan, by expanding play park equipment to cater for younger children, toddlers and to be more inclusive. The new equipment will include: 1x Pod seat swing 1x Multiplay toddler unit

The Strathmartine Community Empowerment Team undertook extensive community engagement to gather ideas and priorities for the use of a local fund. The engagement process included: • 18 in-person engagement sessions across the Strathmartine ward • 1 online questionnaire made available to local residents • A total of 330 individuals shared their thoughts and suggestions From this process, the second most frequently suggested improvement was the installation of new and improved children's play equipment at Clatto Park. This strong level of community interest highlights a clear desire to enhance the play facilities in this location. Following this, the findings were shared with the Friends of Clatto community group, who agreed to take the project forward into the next stage of development. In addition to the formal engagement, members of the Friends of Clatto group have also conducted informal conversations with families using the park. Many of these families expressed a wish for more inclusive and age-appropriate equipment, particularly for younger children and children with additional support needs. This combined evidence from structured consultation and grassroots feedback clearly demonstrates community support and a locally identified need for enhanced, inclusive play equipment at Clatto Park.

In addition to encouraging healthy lifestyles and physical activity, the outdoor area will foster creativity, social interaction, and a sense of belonging. It will also serve as a vital community hub, strengthening ties among families and contributing to overall community well-being.

Local Priority: - Improvements to infrastructure incorporating fencing and bollards, bins and bin enclosures

Stobie Green Screen is a creative green infrastructure project transforming an unused space on Raglan Street- currently the site of flytipping, littering and car-dumping, into an attractive, eco-friendly space that supports sustainability, biodiversity, and community pride.

The project will install a living wall structure that screens off refuse bins and a hot-composter, while also acting as a vertical green space filled with plants. It will provide environmental benefits, reduce visual blight, and offer a community growing space for local residents and groups.

We aim to:

Improve the visual appearance of the Raglan Street side of the community centre.

Introduce a hot-composting system to reduce food and garden waste for the centre, the community and local food-businesses.

Create a biodiverse vertical garden supporting pollinators and air quality.

Strengthen community engagement and ownership over shared spaces.

Promote environmental education through signage and involvement of local schools/groups.

Attached are pictures of the space currently, some 'concept' designs (these are just AI, which never quite captures it, but gives an idea), pictures of some similar projects elsewhere, and examples of the composter/living wall equipment which would be required.

Project Summary: The Stobie Green Screen is a creative green infrastructure project that will transform a currently problematic area at the rear of the community centre on Raglan Street in Stobswell. This space is currently a hotspot for fly-tipping, drug use, and on occasion sex work, leading to concerns around safety, hygiene, and community perception. By installing a living wall structure that screens off the refuse area and houses a new hot-composter, we will convert a neglected and misused space into a vibrant, eco-friendly feature. The project will increase safety, visual appeal, and local pride while delivering tangible environmental, educational, and social benefits. ________________________________________ Project Objectives: Improve the visual appearance of the Raglan Street side of the community centre and tackle the stigma associated with the space. Introduce a hot-composting system to reduce food and garden waste and promote environmental responsibility. Create a biodiverse vertical garden that improves air quality and supports pollinators and local wildlife. Strengthen community engagement and safety, encouraging a sense of ownership and pride among residents. Promote environmental education through signage and involvement of local schools and groups. Eliminate misuse of the area by creating a physical and visual barrier that reduces opportunities for anti-social behaviour. Expected Outcomes: • Visually enhanced street frontage, improving pride and perceptions of the area. • Increased awareness and uptake of sustainable waste practices, especially composting. • Reduction in waste sent to landfill through use of the hot-composter. • Improved local biodiversity and microclimate benefits. • Engagement of volunteers, children, and residents in planting, maintenance, and learning. • A replicable model for small-scale urban greening in other parts of Stobswell. ________________________________________ Timeline: Phase Activity Date Phase 1 Planning & permissions Month 1 Phase 2 Installation of wall & composter Months 2–3 Phase 3 Planting, signage, community engagement Month 4 Phase 4 Launch event, monitoring, and educational outreach Month 5 ________________________________________ Sustainability & Maintenance: Maintenance will be managed by our volunteer gardening group and supported by existing staff. We will also explore youth engagement opportunities through local schools and summer activities, ensuring the space remains cared for long-term.

We initially had our Community Learning & Development Officer visit our cosy cafe and groups to familiarise service users with the Neighbourhood Capital Fund and explain the community involvement in the process. We then handed out suggestion forms to our service users and other visitors to several engagement events both in the centre and outwith it. With the community idea generation underway we were able to draw up ideas which would fit their requirements whilst also being realistic and achievable. With our 'Green Screen project in mind we have displayed the idea for this alongside the other project ideas in Arthurstone library, taking part in the wider community consultation and receiving positive feedback and support from attendees.

Maintenance will be managed by our volunteer gardening group and supported by existing staff. We will also explore youth engagement opportunities through local schools and summer activities, ensuring the space remains cared for long-term. The composter does not require energy or fuel to run so ongoing costs will be minimal- the unit cost includes 1-3 years servicing depending on model selected.

Should the funding application be successful it will also enable us to grow our partnership with other community groups like Room2Be and Ishka who advocate for and provide mental health and peer support through green-plant based activities.

This project links in with the Maryfield priority of ‘Improvements to outdoor play and recreation incorporating park, green spaces and school playgrounds. Our expected outcomes for this project are: • Increase participation of people accessing East Craigie to play football. • Increase participation in females’ access and using the sport facilities at East Craigie. • Increased footfall of people spectating sporting events at East Craigie • Increased footfall contributing to community asset wealth opportunities for East Craigie. Our plan is The plan is to upgrade existing toilet and shower facilities in the existing East Craigie pavilion (1932). East Craigie F.C - Google Maps • Existing building in serious disrepair. • The committee currently looking into suggested layout and facility changes to upgrade the building. • Final scheme will dictate electricity requirements including main distribution board. • Reviewed to accommodate structural engineering inspection and develop options for multi-designated official. Work would include: • Removal of non-structural partition walls • Upgrading shower and toilet facilities • Relocation of laundry equipment including washing machines and tumble dryers The installation of new unisex facilities for match officials and visitors. The installation would include: • Cubicles x3 • Separate toilet and washing facilities • Storage lockers for officials • Upgrades to lighting and heating. • New doors, facings and skirtings. • All surfaces will be wet wall with suspended ceiling.

East Craigie FC are the oldest football club in Dundee. The club is also the oldest junior football club in Scotland. The club was founded in 1880 by mill workers from Wallace Craigie Mill. The club moved from the dock area to their current home in 1932. The club are part of the community and engage in activities to support the promotion of football in the area. We regularly host women at the club through hospitality and as match officials. Our facilities are unfortunately not the standard required. The club is committed to improving changing and toilet facilities for women and girl players, visitors and match officials. East Craigie look to continue and enrich our hosting of groups from the Grey Lodge, Mid-Lin Daycare Centre, supporting elderly and dementia groups. We have an excellent long standing supportive relationship with our neighbours in the allotments. The club has engaged with the Stobswell Forum, who are a local community action group. The club has recently entered into a partnership with Dundee United Social Club (DUSC). This partnership aims to consolidate the club’s community engagement, DUSC have a history of serving areas of multiple deprivation in Dundee and share a similar community ethos with East Craigie FC.

East Craigie are committed to supporting the continuation of football in Maryfield. The clubs’ roots are a century old in the local community. Improving facilities is an essential part of any club’s development. As we move forward to our 150th anniversary as Dundee’s oldest football club, we look forward to welcoming visitors from throughout Scotland, and particularly the Maryfield community. This project will allow East Craigie to work towards our goal of maximising the community wealth opportunities for the benefit of the club and the area it serves.

Local Priority: - Improvements to outdoor play and recreation incorporating parks, green spaces and school playgrounds

We are hoping to improve our school’s outdoor environment, with a focus on creating high-quality play, sports, and learning spaces that support the wellbeing and development of all pupils. Our project will enhance both the physical infrastructure and the educational opportunities available outdoors, while also improving the visual appeal of the school grounds for the wider community. This includes

• upgrading existing play equipment,
• improving landscaping,
• adding features such as shaded seating areas and interactive ground markings.
• resurfacing our current astro pitch and Multi-Use Games Areas (MUGAs), which are in need of repair. 
• dedicated zones for outdoor learning that support exploration, teamwork, and creativity across the curriculum. 

The project will enhance the school’s presence in the community. Improving the visual appearance of the playground and grounds from the street will foster a stronger sense of pride among pupils, parents, and local residents, contributing to a more vibrant and welcoming neighbourhood. Expected Outcomes: • Increased participation in physical activity, sport, and outdoor learning. • Safer, more inclusive and accessible outdoor facilities for all pupils. • Improved physical and mental wellbeing of children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. • A more attractive and engaging school environment that enhances the community’s view of the school. • Greater opportunities for community use and connection with the school’s outdoor spaces. The need for this project has been clearly identified through meaningful engagement with a range of stakeholders, including pupils, parents, staff, and the wider school community. As part of our planning process, we actively sought the views of our pupils through class discussions, suggestion boxes, and pupil council meetings. Children expressed a strong desire for a more engaging and inclusive outdoor environment. They highlighted specific areas of concern such as outdated play equipment, worn sports surfaces, and a lack of inviting spaces for outdoor learning and quiet play. Many children shared ideas for improvements, including new markings for games, seating areas, shaded spots, and a better space for sports activities. We are part of the Stobswell Community Partnership which sees our school and grounds being used regularly to support holidays clubs and family events. Our School Parent Group has also been closely involved in discussions about the project. Parents emphasised the importance of high-quality outdoor spaces in supporting children’s physical and emotional wellbeing. They expressed concern that the current facilities do not meet the needs of all learners, particularly those who benefit from outdoor learning and active play. Several parents pointed out that many families in our community have limited access to safe, well-maintained outdoor areas outside of school, particularly those living in SIMD (Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation) Deciles 1 and 2. Staff feedback and playground observations further support the need for improvements. The astro pitch and Multi-Use Games Areas (MUGAs) are currently worn and limit both curriculum-based physical education and informal play. Teachers have also expressed interest in having designated outdoor learning zones to support cross-curricular teaching and encourage engagement among a wider range of learners. This consistent feedback from pupils, parents, and staff clearly demonstrates a shared priority: to create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring outdoor space that supports learning, health, and wellbeing for all children in our school community.

Playground Equipment Resurfacings of the MUGA, Outdoor Classroom, Bike Shed, Outdoor Chalkboards x 2, Picnic Table x 5, Bug Hotel Planter x 2, Planters for Decoration x 6, Wellie Storage x 2, Fine Motor Wall Panel, Traverse Panels x 2, Builder Engineer Set, Playground Markings, 3 way hopscotch, Snakes and Ladders, Face Compass Clock, Solar System, Outdoor Boom whackers, Harmony Flowers, Junk Music Wall Trip, Wooden Ring Toss, Giant Dominoes, Wooden Skittles, Boules, Giant Tumble Tower, Giant Four in a Row, Skooter Boards x 2

This is not simply a playground improvement project—it is a commitment to equity, health, and education. By upgrading our MUGA, we will ensure that our pupils have access to safe, all-weather sports facilities that encourage lifelong habits of fitness and teamwork. Through the development of outdoor learning areas, we aim to enrich our curriculum and provide more diverse, engaging learning experiences for all children. We are confident that the project will have a lasting and measurable impact on our school community. The level of support from pupils, parents, and staff is strong, and we have the structures in place to ensure that the space will be well-maintained, fully utilised, and embedded in everyday school life. We are also committed to sharing our success and learning from this project with other local schools and community partners, helping to build momentum for wider improvements to children’s environments across our area. In short, this project will not only improve the physical appearance of our school but will significantly enhance the opportunities and experiences available to every child who learns and plays here. Thank you for considering our application—we are excited about the potential of this project and deeply appreciate your support.

Local Priority: - Improve outdoor spaces

Provision of new picnic tables and benches at both Trottick Ponds Local Nature Reserve and Templeton Woods. These seating facilities will improve access for all at these beloved local sites and also enhance the experience of local people to enjoy nature in a walkable setting. This has proven benefits for mental and physical health. This funding would also provide a new dipping platform at the pond within Templeton Woods - a resource which can be used by local community groups and schools. We also propose the refurbishment of signage at Trottick: this will help educate visitors about the historical significance and enhance visits. Also requested is funding to purchase fruit bushes for Templeton Woods will improve the range of species at the site, prove visually appealing and can be used as a food resource by local people. Finally, we would also wish to apply for wildlife cameras for recording at these sites. This record will help to survey the animals in the area and will be used to help educate local groups as to what lives within Strathmartine. This technology is not normally within the financial reach of local people and will also allow children, in particular, to use them and monitor local wildlife both at the sites and potentially within other local areas (such as school grounds). All of these projects will be contributing to the local priorities by improving visitor experiences at accessible green spaces within the ward thereby improving health and wellbeing.

Trottick Ponds Local Nature Reserve and Templeton Woods are both well-used visitor sites within the ward. Provision of facilities improve the experience of accessing nature for all those who visit. The signage at Trottick informs of the historical significance of the site thereby instilling local pride and improving local knowledge of in important part of local history. Visitors have spoken to Rangers about the need for these projects, which will improve nature access to all. The need for more seating was identified by local residents, as relayed to the Ranger Service by Community Workers. Both sites are important cultural icons within the city and serve a wide range of people for pursuits such as dog-walking, cycling, community group activities and relaxation within peaceful settings. Templeton also provides a formal cycling track (Templeton Tangle) and toilet facilities during opening hours. The sites draw visitors from all ages and social grouping; both being placed within commutable distances from some of the most challenged areas of the city. The Ranger Service regularly meets with and provides nature education to visitors from Strathmartine at both sites, including community groups and schools.

The Countryside Ranger Service is a well-established service within Dundee City Council's Neighbourhood Services section. Much of our remit is to serve the people of Dundee in educating about nature as well as maintaining the sites we manage as best as possible for the people and other living things there. We have key sites we manage within Strathmartine which are well used by all the people of the area and beyond. These are Green Flag winning sites with a wide range of visitors from all demographics and we feel we can enhance them for local people by the use of the Community Fund. This is a time when the funding within our own department is often hard to access for these sort of projects. It is also a time when people are increasingly under pressure within their own lives and in need of places to relax and enjoy nature. We think that improving the sites and enhancing access to the natural world we are so lucky to have on our doorstep is of paramount importance to the health and wellbeing of our own citizens. The Ranger Service has delivered groups, volunteer events and education to over 600 people already this year within the city. The majority of these have been met within Strathmartine as it is our key area of interaction. With your assistance we can provide more of the same for our sites and for the people of the city.

Local priority: - Improve community facilities to support wider range of projects

We propose developing a community garden within our existing allotment space to significantly enhance community wellbeing, foster social cohesion, and rejuvenate an underutilised area. This initiative directly addresses local priorities by offering inclusive, accessible outdoor spaces that promote physical health, mental wellness, and environmental sustainability. The garden will provide dedicated spaces for community members, including accessible areas specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. We will install raised beds, pathways suitable for wheelchairs, sensory garden elements, and seating areas to ensure broad accessibility and usability. Moreover, sustainable features such as rainwater harvesting systems and compost bins, will be integrated to promote environmental awareness and sustainability practices within our community. Residents have highlighted the demand for safe, communal spaces that enable outdoor activities and community engagement. This garden will serve as a vital communal hub, offering structured activities such as gardening workshops thus enriching community interactions and social ties. The anticipated outcomes of this project include enhanced community resilience, increased physical activity, improved mental health, and heightened community spirit. It will contribute to local sustainability objectives by promoting biodiversity and sustainable practices. Additionally, the garden will provide opportunities for education and skill-building around gardening, environmental care, and healthy lifestyles. By developing this community garden, we seek not only to transform an underused plot but also to establish a lasting asset that fosters community pride, wellbeing, and sustainability. This aligns directly with Dundee City Council’s objectives of improving local environments and building resilient, inclusive communities, ensuring long-term positive impacts across the neighbourhood.

With better access to the site we can offer more activities within our campus and hold more open days to raise the awareness of our allotments and foster better relationships within the local community.  Hopefully encouraging local people to develop the skills around gardening which can be used within the allotments and  in their own gardens and the wider community.

We see that with better access we can develop our plots to be more user friendly for wheelchair users encouraging participants to be included  in  a gardening community.

The benefits of safer access will not only enhance our site but will encourage inclusion for all.

The need for the community garden at our allotments has been clearly established through direct consultations and engagement with local councillors, community stakeholders, and consultancy support. This has highlighted significant local interest and demand for enhanced green spaces that actively support physical and mental health, community cohesion, and inclusivity. Initial conversations with local councillors revealed consistent feedback from constituents about the lack of accessible community facilities that foster wellbeing, especially in the densely populated Coldside area of Dundee. Councillors emphasised the importance of utilising existing community assets, such as allotments, to promote health and social integration, reinforcing the necessity of our proposed garden. Additionally, a specialist consultant engaged by our Association undertook structured stakeholder engagement, notably with representatives from NHS Tayside. This identified significant local health inequalities and an need for community interventions promoting preventative health measures, mental health support, and active lifestyles. NHS Tayside representatives particularly noted the role community gardening initiatives play in addressing isolation, depression, and physical inactivity, supporting our strategic alignment with broader local health priorities.

We have proven commitment to promoting community wellbeing and enhancing local green spaces. Since achieving charitable status (SC054265), we've undertaken extensive engagement, hosting numerous fundraising and community awareness events. This demonstrates not only our active role in community development but also our capability and commitment to delivering sustainable projects. Importantly, the proposed community garden will be accessible to all, offering specially designed spaces for those with disabilities and mobility issues. This inclusivity directly responds to community feedback about the lack of accessible, therapeutic green spaces. Furthermore, educational workshops, gardening activities, and intergenerational events will foster social cohesion, helping to build stronger community relationships. Funding from the Neighbourhood Capital Fund will significantly advance our goals, enabling immediate enhancements and lasting improvements that resonate deeply with community needs. By investing in this initiative, Dundee City Council will help secure lasting positive outcomes for the neighbourhood - transforming our space into a cornerstone of community wellbeing, pride, and sustainability.

The proposed project aims to transform the Glenconnor green space in Linlathen into a vibrant, multi-functional hub for recreation, fitness, and community engagement. At the heart of this initiative is the development of a floodlit Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), a modern running track, and a play trail designed for all ages. These enhancements build upon the existing, yet underutilised, small games area—addressing residents' requests for an upgraded space that better serves the community’s needs and aspirations. A Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) is a flexible outdoor space designed for various sports and activities, including football, basketball, netball, hockey, and general exercise. These areas promote inclusivity, efficient land use, community cohesion, and health. MUGAs are cost-effective and easy to maintain, making them valuable assets for communities and schools. The addition of a track around the perimeter of the games area is a unique aspect and can be utilised by people of all ages for running, cycling and skateboarding. The attached design plan offers a visual representation of the revitalised green space, demonstrating how thoughtful planning and community input can work hand-in-hand to create accessible and dynamic environments. The intention is for the project to be supported with funding through Environmental Improvements via Dundee City Council- pending committee process, with a total funding cost of £180k. The application to the Neighbourhood Capital Fund is seeking an £80,000 contribution to this total. By investing in these facilities, the project seeks to encourage greater use of the green space, promote healthier lifestyles, and foster stronger social connections among residents. The enhanced amenities will not only provide new opportunities for physical activity and play but also contribute to a sense of pride and ownership within the community. Ultimately, the improved Linlathen green spaces will stand as a testament to the power of local engagement and collective action in building inclusive, resilient neighbourhoods. The opportunity to develop this space links directly with outcomes in the East End Community Plan including “Improving Green and Open Spaces” and “Increasing opportunities for Physical Activity”. This is also aligned with recommendations in the Linlathen Narrative Inquiry, which suggests the establishment of community green spaces or gardens through collaborations between local residents and Dundee City Council. The video link in the attachments shows the issue of improving green and play spaces being raised by a broad section of the local community.

Local residents, through their involvement in the Linlathen Local Fairness Initiative, have played a pivotal role in shaping the vision for this project. Their feedback and participation in leadership development workshops have directly informed the design and priorities, ensuring the improvements reflect what matters most to those living in the area. A total of 26 people were consulted through an outreach approach targeting households on the periphery of the site across several streets. Outreach engagement at the local food larder and family activity group took place. The majority view was strongly positive, with 25 out of 26 supporting the MUGA and all participants in favour of installing new lights, though some concerns were raised about potential vandalism and anti-social behaviour. Residents suggested including activities like football, tennis, and resources for toddlers, and emphasised community engagement—particularly involving local youth—to ensure the project's success. Local residents were also invited to an open information session through social media advertising and a leaflet drop. There was a low turnout to this information session, however community members were given the opportunity to make objections should they wish. There is evidence of wider community backing for a project of this nature as the improving spaces to play and be physically active was one of the main themes that was reported through the community priorities survey for the Neighbourhood Capital Fund. Linlathen faces challenges such as limited availability of sports facilities, increasing youth inactivity and related health issues along with several data zones in Linlathen falling within decile 1 or 2 in SIMD, indicating very high levels of deprivation.

The outdoor space at the Finmill Centre needs updates to improve safety, especially for children and those with mobility issues. To make the area safe, welcoming, and accessible, it needs seating, sensory equipment, planting, safe play equipment, fencing, and new surfaces. Currently, the tarmac surface with small stones is unsafe for children, toddlers, and people with mobility issues. Although there is a ramp, it leads to rough surfacing, which is unsuitable. The area lacks welcoming spaces for the community to sit, chat, or play. The Finmill cafes exist, but outdoor areas with safe seating are inaccessible for people. The local priority indicates a desire for such amenities. Children's groups could use the space for outdoor play, enhancing learning in nature. This enclosed play area would offer safe spaces for all children, including those with additional needs. Families can spend time together outdoors without safety concerns. Adults can enjoy the café and outdoor seating, improving mental health and wellbeing. The outdoor space will encourage community interaction and connections. These improvements align with local priorities and promote greater community engagement.

A local community survey revealed a desire for a safe and welcoming outdoor space at the Finmill Centre, suitable for families. The local playgroup and youth and family groups reported safety concerns, indicating the urgent need for improvements. The playgroup has deemed the current surfacing unsuitable for young children to play on, or use bikes, scooters, or prams. Children with ASN would benefit from a sensory area with equipment that aids their development. The family group which supports parents with children with additional support in many areas, have expressed they would like a nature-connected area with a sensory garden and safe play zones. Such an environment is crucial for children's development, fostering expression and creativity. The survey indicated that a safe, welcoming outdoor space would enhance community engagement and encourage its use.

The outdoor area should be a safe and welcoming space for everyone to use, from young children to adults. It should be a space to be creative, encourage curiosity particularly amongst children and promote wellbeing. A sensory space for all to use and enjoy, building positive relationships across the ages and throughout the community.

Funds would be used to pay for mud kitchen, play panel, balance block, seating, picnic table accessible, picnic table recycled plastic, sensory mirror leaves, sensory flower mirrors, sensory planting, Buddy bench, resurfacing, bins 

Ormiston Play Park is centrally located in the heart of Whitfield, surrounded by the streets of Lufness, Craigievar, Pitcaple, Dunrobin, and Cardoness Walk. Positioned within a social housing development predominantly occupied by families, the park is a vital community asset, offering a safe and accessible space for children, young people, and families to play, gather, and enjoy the outdoors. Despite its popularity, the park’s equipment is outdated and in urgent need of refurbishment. Through recent community engagement and consultation, residents have clearly expressed the need for improvements. Key priorities identified include the installation of equipment suitable for pre-school children, the addition of inclusive and accessible play features, picnic benches to encourage family use of the green space, and repairs to existing well-loved equipment.

The redevelopment will not only improve physical infrastructure but also foster stronger community connections, promote outdoor activity, and support early years development. The inclusion of picnic areas and improved signage will further encourage families to spend time in the park, strengthening social ties and promoting well-being.

This project directly supports local priorities by addressing the significant levels of child poverty in the North East of Dundee, where 36% of children live in poverty, higher than the city average of 31% (SIMD 2020). By enhancing the quality and inclusivity of Ormiston Play Park, we aim to provide a safe, welcoming, and stimulating environment for children of all ages and abilities, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. We have linked with Stakeholders such as Primary Schools, Parent Councils, Tenants Community Empowerment Team, Early Years Educators, to ensure there is no duplication of work and to ensure we are enhancing current assets. Angus Housing Association, a registered charity and the landowner, is committed to supporting this initiative. However, due to financial constraints, we are unable to fully fund the redevelopment independently. We are therefore seeking external funding to bring this community-led vision to life. This project represents a meaningful investment in children, families, and the wider community, creating a more inclusive, engaging, and vibrant public space for all. The association has undergone extensive outreach through a Microsoft Forms questionnaire to gather feedback regarding what equipment and improvements should be made. This included targeted door knocking in the surrounding areas of the play park. We also attended the North East Campus during school finish times to facilitate more engagement and feedback. Additionally, this was sent out on our social media platforms and distributed through emails and text messages to tenants and the wider community for completion. On Monday, May 2nd, which was a school in-service day, we aimed to maximize feedback and engagement while schools were closed. We held a picnic in the park event from 11 AM to 1 PM as another way to engage with individuals. Here, we invited children and families to complete the questionnaire and assist with designing a sign and notice boards for the park, which was successful.

Investing in our proposed play park will not only enhance the community’s recreational offerings but also provide a safe and engaging environment for children and families to thrive. By fostering physical activity, social interactions, and imaginative play, we are nurturing the well-being of our youth and building stronger community bonds. We believe that with your support, we can create a vibrant space that will be cherished for generations to come. Together, let’s make a lasting impact on our community by turning this vision into reality.

Local Priority - Improvements to outdoor play and recreation incorporating parks, green spaces and school playgrounds

We hope to install communication boards in four local parks within the Stobswell area of Dundee: Malcolm Street Park, Baxter Park, Crescent Street Park, and Wee Forest. Communication boards are inclusive tools featuring symbols, words, and pictures that help individuals—particularly non-verbal children, people with speech or language difficulties, and neurodivergent individuals—communicate effectively in public spaces.

This grant will fund the design, production, and installation of durable, weather-resistant communication boards in each of the four locations, ensuring a lasting and visible improvement to public spaces in one of Dundee’s most disadvantaged areas.

This project directly supports community inclusion, accessibility, and wellbeing, aligning with local priorities around improving public spaces and supporting vulnerable groups. The communication boards will make these parks more welcoming and functional for a wider range of users, fostering meaningful participation for families, carers, and individuals who are often excluded from full engagement in community life. This initiative is targeted to Stobswell West as highlighted in the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation as experiencing significant levels of poverty and social disadvantage.

The key outcomes of this project will include: Increased accessibility and inclusive use of public spaces Enhanced support for children and adults with communication difficulties Stronger community cohesion through more inclusive design Direct engagement with families living in poverty who may otherwise face exclusion from mainstream services

High ASN prevalence among youth in Dundee According to Scottish Government data, approximately 33.4% of primary pupils and 48.7% of secondary pupils in Dundee are recorded as having at least one ASN. Nationally, about 40.5% of all Scottish schoolchildren have identified ASN. 

Social isolation among young people The Scottish Household Survey (2020) found that 48% of 16–24-year-olds reported feeling lonely at least some of the time. Additionally, the UK’s Office for National Statistics notes that 11.3% of children aged 10–15 say they “often” feel lonely; rates are much higher (27.5%) for those on free school meals. These figures highlight a clear need for initiatives that foster connection and inclusion outside the school environment.

Inclusive play spaces as a solution Installing communication boards in local parks is a practical, low-cost intervention with proven benefits: they support non-verbal or anxious children in expressing needs, understanding park features, and engaging socially. Such enhancements can reduce stress, encourage family outings, and help build peer and community bonds—counteracting both social isolation and exclusion.

Area-specific relevance Our target neighbourhood, Stobswell West, is among Dundee’s most deprived zones (per SIMD). Families here often lack funding for private supports, making improved public amenities vital for young people and those with ASN.

Community-informed need Discussions with local parents, ASN support professionals, and community workers have consistently flagged that recreational spaces lack the visual and communication supports needed for meaningful use by children with ASN. This aligns with both the local demographic reality and national well‑being data.

As the applicant, I bring both professional and personal commitment to this project. I currently work as a Youth Coordinator for a local learning disabilities charity, where I support young people with a range of additional support needs to build confidence, develop life skills, and participate in their communities. I also volunteer with Befriends, a charity that supports children and young people through one-to-one befriending and group activities. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the barriers many families face when accessing public spaces and the importance of small, practical changes that can make a big difference.

This project would directly benefit the young people and volunteers involved in Befriends. Many befriending matches meet in local parks, but for children with communication or sensory needs, these outings can sometimes be overwhelming. Communication boards would provide much-needed support, helping young people express themselves, follow routines, and feel more confident in outdoor environments. They would also give befrienders additional tools to help guide conversations and build relationships.

In addition, this initiative would complement the work being done in local schools, particularly through Enhanced Support Areas (ESAs), where children with significant additional needs receive tailored educational support. Communication boards in the wider community would help reinforce what is being taught in schools and create greater consistency between education and leisure environments.

This project is grounded in lived experience, informed by direct support work, and designed to meet a clear local need. It supports inclusive play, strengthens community connection, and empowers young people with additional needs to take part in everyday life with greater ease and dignity.

We’re excited about the opportunity to deliver a simple but powerful change in our local parks—we believe this project can be a stepping stone toward a more inclusive, welcoming community for everyone.