A key vision of the DDCA is for Dufftown and District to be a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. To support this vision, one of our strategic aims is to ensure that education and training opportunities are accessible to all.
As a rural town, Dufftown has fewer training opportunities and wellbeing initiatives than larger areas, and with an older population compared to the Scottish average, the community faces higher risks of social isolation, digital exclusion, and poor mental wellbeing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the DDCA played a central role in delivering essential support through programs such as ‘Connect Scotland’ and the recovery fund. Building on this work, we are now focused on boosting community resilience through skills development and wellbeing events.
In spring 2022, the DDCA carried out a Skills and Training survey, which found that many participants see the lack of available training as a barrier to improving employability and adult learning skills. We take a holistic approach to community development, ensuring that mental health and wellbeing are central to all our projects.
Now, in 2025 we continue to seek ways to support the Community and are hoping to launch a new fund towards the end of the year to support people back to work. Throughout the Summer we held various events for Adults, Children and Families and we will continue to see Community Feedback to fill this need.
Please keep an eye on our socials for more information on our Warm Spaces events and our Community Growing Project- more details to follow soon!
