This is the story of GALE’s award-winning approach to inclusive volunteering and year-round community impact
The Gairloch and Loch Ewe Action Forum (GALE) is a community-owned Development Trust based in mid-Wester Ross, serving the village of Gairloch and its surrounding areas. GALE’s mission is to build “a sustainable, resilient, and vibrant Gairloch and Loch Ewe community,” and in summer 2025, their efforts were nationally recognised when they received Plunkett UK’s Investing in Local People award.
GALE operates across two sites: the GALE Centre and the community-owned pub, The Shieling. Their relationship with Plunkett began through a partnership with the Scottish Government and it quickly became apparent that the team at GALE were supporting their community in a diverse number of ways, and the pub was really the tip of the iceberg.
Since opening in April 2025, The Shieling has become a hub for inclusive and creative community activity. Monthly bake stalls bring together amateur and experienced bakers, while the Kids’ Café offers a welcoming space for socialising. The pub has also hosted a series of events in partnership with the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust and the British Science Association. Locals can also access useful workshops including one that explores better community inclusion for individuals with additional support needs.
The GALE Centre
Volunteers outside GALE Centre
Plunkett UK’s recent Impact Report revealed that community-owned businesses across the UK have benefitted from the volunteer support provided by over 20,000 people. GALE understands the importance of this – their work is rooted in improving local lives through access to services, employment, and economic support. The organisation employs 20 local residents and collaborates with over 100 local businesses, creating a positive financial ripple effect throughout the area. Their commitment to volunteering is equally strong: GALE invests over £20,000 annually in its volunteer programme, viewing it not as a cost-saving measure but as a vital tool for community engagement and empowerment.
Volunteering at GALE is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Their supported volunteering scheme enables individuals who may face barriers to participation: such as those with additional support needs to get involved in meaningful ways. This initiative fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to contribute. GALE has held the Investing in Volunteers accreditation for eight years, and their model is now recognised across Scotland as an example of best practice.
To further support inclusive practices, GALE conducted research into the barriers faced by individuals with additional support needs and shared their findings widely. Their café also reflects this ethos, operating on a ‘Pay What You Can’ basis five days a week during the winter months.
In a region where work and trade are often seasonal, GALE provides year-round stability; opening 364 days a year. Their efforts have created a reliable anchor for the community, offering employment, social connection, and opportunities for growth. The Investing in Local People award is a testament to their dedication, and their work continues to inspire the wider community-owned sector.
GALE’s story is one of innovation, inclusion, and resilience. By investing in people and prioritising accessibility, they’ve built a model that not only serves their own community but offers a blueprint for others across the UK.
Watch
Find out how GALE are supporting the local community in this film:
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