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No news is bad news. And Scotland's community publications need your help. Support our Crowdfunder and help build a 'citizens agenda'
No news is good news...
Or is it? Without news, how would you know about the issues affecting your community? How would you know what your local authorities were planning or whether they were acting legally? How would you know if your local environment was being impacted and by whom? And how would you know about the positive changes in your area, the success stories?
As long as you have a local independent news source in your area, your community can stay informed – but sadly, far too many news providers aren’t able to cover their costs, and have to shut down. Please support independent news today and keep Scotland's communities in the know.
No news is bad news.
Why you should support independent media
Independent community-based journalism helps people to understand issues in society, and make informed decisions. It can empower citizens to create meaningful solutions, create dialogue and foster fundamental changes. In short, it plays an essential role in local democracy.
The old business model, based on advertising and newspaper sales, is no longer viable for many organisations. Most local papers are owned by media huge media conglomerates, who cut staff and consolidate newsrooms to meet demands of distant shareholders. As a result, voices are going unheard, and issues are going under-reported.
Yet despite this, dedicated individuals all around the country are working with limited resources to serve their communities information needs.
You can help local and hyperlocal independent news to bring real stories from across Scotland by supporting The Scottish Beacon. Your support will help to repair Scotland’s independent media ecosystem. This is needed more than ever.
We're a new collaborative and any donation you will make will make all the difference. What's more, any contribution you make in June will be doubled by the Indie News Fund!
At the Scottish Beacon, we believe in doing journalism differently, and we believe that the future of journalism is collaborative. That means local newsrooms collaborating with each other. But it also means working more collaboratively with our readers and the communities we serve.
That’s why we’re asking our readers to set the Citizens’ Agenda for political coverage of the general election campaign.
Rather than let the candidates and party machines determine the topics that get coverage, this approach is designed to put power back in the hands of the people that politicians are meant to be serving.
So we want to hear from you. What do you want the candidates standing in your constituency to be talking about as they compete for votes? Tell us your thoughts here.
Based on the responses we receive, we will work with participating publishers to develop a constituency-specific set of questions that we will put to each of the candidates standing in that area. And we will publish their answers to produce voter guides that are based on the issues you have highlighted as being important.
Have your say by filling in this VERY short survey here.
Latest on our website…
The Scottish Beacon collaborative: What’s happening to Scotland’s community spaces?
Community halls and buildings are the heart of any community. They provide a space to bring people together, whether that’s for joy, connection or to talk about the things that matter. So when these assets are lost to private hands, it leaves a huge hole in any community. Our partners across Scotland have shared stories of hope, resilience and loss, as communities work to take back ownership of these spaces.
Village church saved by its community
The historic Kilmaronock Church faced closure in 2017. The local community rallied to prevent this from happening. Now, their successful bid to buy the church ensures its preservation and transformation into a community venue. This is how they did it.
No. 154 McDonald Road – 10 years on
In 1896, Broughton Primary and Higher Grade School opened its doors to acclaim and excitement. Despite controversy over lavish spending in the rustic setting, the school thrived. The golden age saw working-class Broughton alumni achieve distinction at Scottish universities. The legacy of pride persists, even as the school moved to new premises. But the former building’s sale sparked suspicion. This article looks at the property ten years on from its last refurbishment?
Where the Heavens Meet the Stars: A Visionary Project for Doon Valley’s Future
Local councillor Drew Filson is leading an inspiring community initiative in the Doon Valley. The ‘Where the Heavens Meet the Stars’ project aims to rescue the historic Kirk o’ the Covenant, establish a community observatory, create a local history museum, open a charming tearoom, and revive a much-needed florist shop. With match funding applications underway, this multifaceted venture promises to reinvigorate the community.
From Schoolhouse to Community Hub: The Glenkens Community Centre’s Remarkable Journey
Built in the late 19th century as a school, the Glenkens Community Centre in St John’s Town of Dalry has weathered challenges, closures, and transformations. Discover its rich history, dedicated volunteers, and pivotal role in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway.
“Empty buildings owned by the Ministry of Defence should be reused in response to the housing emergency” says MSP.
This week MSP Jackie Baillie, whose Dumbarton constituency includes Faslane, said: "It is frustrating to see any property, which could be brought back into use to provide a home, lying empty" challenging the MoD's right to gatekeep the property amidst a housing crisis as it falls into disrepair.
The Friends of St Ninian’s: preserving Deerness’ local heritage
It would be only too easy for the historic St Ninian’s church to have fallen into disrepair and be lost, a common fate for older buildings across Scotland. The Friends of St Ninian’s have not only managed to preserve this fascinating building and its history, but are continuing to use it for the benefit of the community. Here's how they did it.
The white elephant on the hill?
The Murdo Macaulay Memorial Hall: Nestled in Druim Fraoich, North Dell, is an unassuming community building, but with a rich history. From its 1964 opening to hosting music bands and training sessions, the hall has left a positive impact. Now, as its 60th anniversary approaches, discussions about its future range from artist studios to potential housing replacement.