University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire last week hosted its Participation Day at Cornerstone in Cumbernauld Town Centre, marking one year since the launch of its Engagement and Participation Strategy (2024-2027).
The event brought together carers, supported individuals, voluntary organisations, and community representatives to celebrate the achievements of the past year and reaffirm the partnership’s commitment to placing people at the heart of local decision-making.
The strategy, developed in collaboration with key partners, has empowered voluntary organisations to carry out high-quality engagement with communities across North Lanarkshire.
Central to this success is the Growth Pot Fund, which has already awarded £80,000 to 30 grassroots groups, enabling them to reach underrepresented voices and build stronger, more inclusive networks.
More than 100 attendees heard inspiring presentations from organisations who have already received Growth Pot funding including Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire Carers Together, and North Lanarkshire Disability Forum.
Supporting organisations to engage meaningfully with local people, means the partnership is helping individuals feel more connected, valued, and involved in shaping the health and social care services that affect their lives.
This increased engagement is not only transforming how services are designed – its also helping residents live well, stay connected, and enjoy good quality lives rooted in their communities.
Claire Rae, chief officer, University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire, said: “As a health and social care partnership, we are committed to enabling high-quality public engagement and ensuring that every voice in North Lanarkshire is heard, respected, and reflected in the services that support them.
“The Participation Day was an excellent opportunity for people across North Lanarkshire to hear about the excellent engagement work the Growth Pot is supporting. Crucially, it was an opportunity for them to learn how they can make their voices heard and shape the services they receive.
