Working with Location Partners: Building a Foundation for the Memorial
The Remembering Together project was made possible through the tireless efforts of numerous location partners across Clackmannanshire, who opened their doors and provided the spaces for the community to come together and create something truly meaningful. From community halls and churches to schools and public spaces, these partners were the foundation on which the memorial was built, both literally and figuratively.
Community Collaboration and Mutual Benefit
Throughout the project, we partnered with a diverse range of organisations, including Sauchie Active8, Menstrie Primary School, Muckhart Parish Church, The Conservation Volunteers, OYCI in Tillicoultry, and Alva Scouts, among others. These local institutions were more than just venues—they were hubs of community activity that fostered connection, creativity, and healing. Whether it was hosting poetry workshops, safe space art sessions, or musical collaborations, the spaces provided by these partners enabled people from different walks of life to come together and share their experiences.
Partnerships like these are a vital part of community cohesion. When spaces are opened up for mutual benefit, everyone wins. Communities feel valued, organisations see increased engagement, and the economy experiences positive growth as these activities encourage footfall and local spending. As many of the partners have expressed, being part of the Remembering Together project has reignited a sense of pride and ownership in their community, as they watched the spaces they manage play such a crucial role in the county’s healing.
Support from Key Stakeholders
In addition to our location partners, organisations such as NHS Forth Valley, Clackmannanshire Council, Alloa First, and Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface were instrumental in ensuring the success of the project. Their resources, expertise, and networks helped to broaden the reach of the project, ensuring that as many people as possible could participate and benefit from the memorial activities. Their role in coordinating health and wellbeing aspects, logistical support, and communication was essential in connecting communities with the project.
The Power of Mutual Partnerships
Mutual partnerships don’t just benefit the individuals involved—they strengthen communities as a whole. As this project demonstrated, partnerships between local organisations, public sector bodies, and third sector agencies create ripple effects that go beyond the immediate impact of the project. In this case, the foundation laid by the Remembering Together project has inspired other initiatives, brought new ideas for community engagement, and strengthened the cultural and social fabric of Clackmannanshire.
The Role of Greenspace Scotland
The guiding hand behind this collaborative effort was Greenspace Scotland. Their team played a vital role in overseeing the Remembering Together initiative across Scotland, providing not only administrative support but also the creative freedom needed to enable each community to truly express themselves. Greenspace Scotland encouraged experimentation and co-creation, removing barriers and driving local engagement. Their focus on empowering artists and communities has left an enduring legacy, reminding us all of the power of collective action in times of adversity.
By working together, these partnerships have shown that when communities unite for a common goal, they can create something far greater than the sum of their parts. Through the dedication of local partners and the unwavering support of external stakeholders, the Remembering Together project has left an indelible mark on Clackmannanshire—a mark built on collaboration, shared purpose, and a deep sense of pride in place.