Sponsored Editorial: Community Links

Could you help shape the future of West Dunbartonshire?

Local charity, Community Links Scotland, is seeking new volunteers to join our Management Board.

For nearly 25-years, Community Links Scotland has been supporting people, communities and local organisations in West Dunbartonshire to create positive change.

Based in Clydebank, we work to tackle poverty, reduce isolation, strengthen communities and help people build more secure futures.

Alongside our local services, we also support charities, housing associations and community organisations across the West of Scotland to develop projects, secure funding and strengthen community-led initiatives.

Within West Dunbartonshire we deliver practical support for local people. We provide free energy advice and advocacy, wellbeing activities, arts and heritage programmes, home Starter Packs and household support for people experiencing financial hardship, poor wellbeing or social isolation.

Over the last three years, our local programmes have directly supported more than 1,600 people across West Dunbartonshire.

Projects such as Healthy Pathways provide opportunities for local people to connect, learn new skills and improve their wellbeing, while our West Dunbartonshire Energy Advice Service helps residents navigate rising energy costs, reduce bills and access financial support.

Everything we do is built around helping people remain connected, confident and able to thrive within their community.

Our Board works alongside a dedicated team of seven staff who deliver community support, energy advice, wellbeing activities and development services, helping ensure local people receive practical support when they need it most.

As the organisation continues to grow and respond to local needs, Community Links Scotland is now looking for new Board members from West Dunbartonshire to help shape our future.

Chairperson, Sephton MacQuire, has been a board member for the last 16 years and says: “Itʼs great, we get to support the great staff and work that directly benefits communities.

Itʼs amazing to see and be a part of work happening and feels great to give back to the community.

“We meet regularly throughout the year and hold meetings where we are guided through the work of the organisation and discuss current and upcoming projects.”

Treasurer, Anne McQueen, joined the board three years ago.

When she was first approached about joining the board Anne felt unsure, she said: “I didnʼt think Iʼd have the right experience or knowledge, but I thought Iʼd give it a try and itʼs been great.

“The organisation could benefit from a good mix of members, so it would be great to welcome new faces.

“I worked in the NHS for most of my career, but when I retired, I wanted to keep active and found it a great place to use my natural skills, plus the training provided helped me to do my best for the organisation.

“Being a part of the group is so rewarding and satisfying, and we always have some lovely tea, coffee, and goodies at our meetings”

No previous Board experience is required.

We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and experience, who are passionate about West Dunbartonshire, looking for an opportunity to contribute in a relaxed and friendly environment and interested in helping guide a well-established local charity.

Full training and support will be provided.

Board members will attend approximately six meetings each year and have the opportunity to contribute to work that makes a genuine difference to communities across West Dunbartonshire.

CLS BOARD MEMBER VACANCIES

About the Role

Community Links Scotland Board Members play a key role in shaping the organisationʼs strategic direction, ensuring strong governance, and supporting community-led projects. We are interested in recruiting individuals with skills, experience, or an interest in: 

·         Community development and regeneration

·         Energy advice and fuel poverty

·         Mental health & Wellbeing

·         Supporting local community groups

·         Sustainability and climate action

No previous board experience is required, training and support will be provided. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the community of West Dunbartonshire.

Time Commitment

·         At least 1 meeting every 2 months at our offices in Clydebank

·         Occasional involvement in sub-groups or events

·         Some preparation time to read papers before meetings

Why Join CLS?

•       Make a meaningful contribution to local community-led change

•       Help deliver projects in West Dunbartonshire that improve places and lives

•       Gain valuable governance and leadership experience

•       Work alongside a passionate and supportive team

Get Involved

If you've ever wanted to use your skills, experience or enthusiasm to support positive change in West Dunbartonshire, we'd love to hear from you. For an informal chat speak to our Director, Stephen, on 0141 952 4382 or email info@comlinks.org.uk