SSEN Transmission begins recruitment for community benefit fund decision-making forum in West and Mid Highland
15 September 2026
We are inviting people from across West and Mid Highland to apply to join a new decision-making forum that will help direct millions of pounds of investment into local communities.
We have launched recruitment for members of our new West and Mid Highland Local Investment Forum, which will be responsible for assessing and deciding on applications to our community benefit funds across the region.
The forum's initial focus will be the Skye Reinforcement Local Fund, which is expected to launch in autumn 2026 and will invest £5.46 million into local communities over a minimum three-year period.
The fund has been developed following extensive community engagement and is designed to ensure communities hosting major electricity transmission infrastructure share directly in the benefits of these nationally significant investments.
Applications for the forum are being encouraged from residents of the following Highland Council wards:
- Black Isle (Ward 9)
- Dingwall and Seaforth (Ward 8)
- Eilean a' Cheò (Ward 10)
- Caol and Mallaig (Ward 11)
- Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh (Ward 5)
- Fort William and Ardnamurchan (Ward 21)
Applications are also welcome from residents within the community council area of Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston.
Community councillors, local authority staff and elected members are not eligible to join the forum, as per UK Government guidance on community funds for transmission infrastructure.
The Skye Reinforcement Local Fund will support projects that deliver meaningful community impact and long-term legacy, with investment focused on the priorities identified through community engagement. These include affordable housing, community assets and infrastructure, capacity building for local organisations, improved local amenities and services, and enhanced transport and connectivity.
The fund will support communities hosting infrastructure associated with the Skye Reinforcement Project, including Skye and Raasay, Glenelg and Arnisdale, Glengarry, and Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston.
Dr Joanna Rodgers, Community Investment Manager at SSEN Transmission, said:
"The Skye Reinforcement Local Fund represents a significant opportunity to create lasting benefits for communities along the project route.
"Communities across the area have shaped the fund’s priorities and structure, and we're now looking for local people to join the decision-making forum for this fund and future funds in the region. We want to hear from individuals with a strong understanding of their communities, a commitment to social value, and a passion for helping local projects and organisations thrive.
"You don't need previous experience of making funding decisions. We're keen to build a diverse forum that reflects the communities in the area and brings a range of perspectives to the table. We especially welcome applications from younger people and members of other underrepresented groups.
"This is an opportunity to help shape the legacy of investment in the region and ensure funding supports projects that make a real and lasting difference for local people."
Forum members will serve a three-year term and receive a fee of £1,000 per year in recognition of their contribution. Members will receive a full induction and training from our Community Investment Team and ongoing support throughout their appointment.
The role involves reviewing funding applications, attending meetings, taking part in training and discussions, and supporting occasional community fund promotion opportunities. Meetings may be held in person, online or in a hybrid format.
We are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience of the community or voluntary sector who are passionate about supporting local development and can work collaboratively with others.
The Skye Reinforcement Local Fund forms part of our commitment to delivering meaningful community benefits alongside major investments in the electricity transmission network needed to support Scotland and the UK's transition to a cleaner energy future.
Applications are now open, with full details and how to apply available through our careers page.
For further information about becoming a Forum Member, contact Joanna Rodgers at community.benefit@sse.com.