Local Investment Forum Member – Western Isles

A Local Investment Forum is being recruited to make decisions on applications to SSEN Transmission’s local community funds in the Western Isles. Your initial focus will be the Lewis Hub Local Fund, which will launch in late 2026 following extensive community engagement.  This fund will invest £1,060,000 over five years into local communities, with the forum also responsible for future SSEN Transmission funds in the Western Isles.  Anyone in the Western Isles can apply. As much of the new transmission infrastructure expected to be developed during the lifetime of this forum is likely to be located in the east of Lewis, we would particularly welcome applications from individuals who have knowledge of that area.

The Opportunity

The forum will help direct significant investment into communities in the Western Isles by assessing and deciding on funding applications.  The Lewis Hub Local Fund will support projects that deliver meaningful impact, build long term legacy and address at least one of the following priorities:

• Health and wellbeing (including tackling social isolation and intergenerational projects)

• Accessible / affordable activities for children and young people (including activities, equipment and travel)

• Community-led facilities and amenities (including community centres and leisure/gym/sports venues)

• Capacity building of community bodies (including funding for skills development and people)

This first local fund is targeted at communities closest to the infrastructure: North Lochs, Stornoway, Laxdale and Sandwick.

Who Can Apply

No previous forum or panel experience is required.  We want to build a diverse forum who can also bring knowledge of the area and fund themes.  We welcome applications from people who:

• Are resident in the Western Isles

• Can support this and future Western Isles’ fund development

• Have experience in, or supporting, the community or voluntary sector

• Have knowledge of at least one of the fund themes

• Support a commitment to social value

• Work collaboratively with others

• Are comfortable giving and receiving challenge

• Can advocate for the fund and its aims

Due to UK Government guidance, Community Councillors, local authority staff member or elected member cannot be members of the forum. If you are currently in one of these categories, you cannot apply even if you plan to stand down upon selection for the forum.

What You’ll Commit To

The forum will meet at least once a year, but the role involves more than attending a single meeting.  You will also need time to prepare, read papers, take part in an induction training, engage in discussions, and occasionally support press or community opportunities. Meetings may be in-person in Lewis, online, or hybrid.  Forum members serve a five-year term and receive a fee of £1,000 per year for their contribution.

You will receive a full induction and training from our Community Investment Team who have many years of experience in delivering funds, and they’ll continue to provide support and guidance as needed.

More About the Lewis Hub Local Fund

The local fund launches in late 2026. SSEN Transmission has carried out considerable community engagement to inform the focus of the fund.  Community feedback has shaped its design, including a minimum five-year duration and a flexible approach to grant sizes.

To apply, please provide a cover letter setting out any community / voluntary experience and / or experience with the fund themes.