Sustrans Scotland has launched a new programme, the Community Active Travel Support Service (CATSS).

The service is open to organisations looking to set up a new active travel project, working in SIMD 1-2 areas (ie. the lowest 10% and 20% of the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD)), or with people and communities who experience inequality (including young people, disabled people, people of colour, and LGBT groups).

CATSS aims to ensure organisations working with these communities have the advice and support needed to help more people using “active travel”, which means making journeys in physically active ways, including walking, wheeling (using a wheelchair or mobility aid), cycling, or scooting.

Staff and volunteers from successful organisations will receive 3 – 6 months of in-depth support to set up or develop initiatives that will encourage more people in their community to walk, wheel or cycle more. They will also receive a small amount of staff time from Sustrans Scotland, as well as advice and access to training opportunities tailored to their needs, such as governance, project planning, running events, accessing funding, marketing, social media, or practical skills like first aid, walk or ride leader training, or bike repair training.

To apply, please read the guidance and complete the online expression of interest form (linked for your convenience), which has been designed to be quick and easy. Sustrans Scotland aims to inform organisations if they have been successful in their application within 3 working days.

Alternatively, for further information, visit the Sustrans Scotland website.