The Dufftown and District Community Forum is run quarterly with the aim to facilitate information sharing and collaboration in our community.
Our latest forum was held on the 17th September 2025 at 7pm
The Community Groups presents were;
- The Royal British Legion
- Dufftown Trust
- Dufftown 2000
- Dufftown in Bloom
- Dufftown Community Centre
- Mortlach Memorial Hall
- Speyside Youth
- Dufftown Highland Games
- Dufftown and District Community Association
- Dufftown Cubs and Scouts
- Moray Council
- Dufftown Football sent apologies
The forum had two key points on the agenda, a follow up discussion from a tsiMoray Funding Workshop attended by some of the group over the Summer months titled- ‘Income Streams for the 3rd Sector’ and a review of the Dufftown Community Development Plan.
Opportunities for creating Funding Streams
At the workshop, attendees shared updates on the progress they’ve made and the exciting ideas that have come out of their work, with support from tsiMoray. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and already steps are being taken to explore different ways to raise funds, including JustGiving, PayDay Giving, and selling merchandise.
One idea that really sparked the group’s imagination was the possibility of joining forces to organise a large-scale fundraising event for all the local groups. There are lots of creative options to consider, and we’ll be sharing updates with the community as the plans take shape
Community Action Plan
We focused on the Actions of the Community Action Plan 2021-2026, the group discussed what actions had been achieved and what were the next key priorities that would be most beneficial to the community and visitors. I have noted some of the key actions to follow up on below.
- Whilst a lot has been done there is more that we could do to make the Dufftown Path Network better for all.
- Develop Cycling and MTB trails around Dufftown and District.
- Improved signage in the town for routes and attractions.
- Support the Football Club with improvements to changing facilities.
- Continue to engage young people in Cycling and the Outdoors.
- Revisit woodland survey
- Publicise the groups working in the community and key contact details
- Encourage and Support volunteering across all groups.
While there are still items to complete on the Community Action Plan, it’s worth taking a moment to celebrate the dedication and passion shown by each group. Their contributions are helping to make Dufftown a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone, and we’re excited to see the next steps unfold as these plans continue to take shape.
Conclusion
The forums are a great chance for groups across Dufftown and District to come together, share ideas, and support one another. We talked about how best to celebrate the work of our amazing volunteers and how to raise more awareness in the community. Other discussions included the possibility of more cooking classes, opportunities to meet new people, growing projects, and many other ideas we’ll share as they develop.
Thank you for all who attended the Forum and shared their experiences with us and then contributed to the discussions around future events.
As always, if there is any feedback on the Community Forums or further suggestions of themes or speakers that would be of interest to groups in the community then please get in touch- aileen@dufftowncommunity.co.uk.
Next community forum – online Wednesday 3rd December at 7pm – invite to follow.
