SOSE Engagement Tour

First ever engagement tour to discuss future of South of Scotland economy

Over 20 villages and towns across the region will be visited as part of our first ever engagement tour this winter.

‘Your South of Scotland’ is open to everyone in the region to meet SOSE’s Chair, Professor Russel Griggs OBE, and Chief Executive Jane Morrison-Ross at one of 24 dates between November 2021 and March 2022.

Engagement vital for South of Scotland

The sessions, which begin in Dumfries on Monday 8 November, will allow businesses, social enterprises, community groups and the general public to give their views on what our priorities should be for the local economy.

This feedback will also help our shape its first ever three year Action Plan – a vital strategy which will set out our priorities and ambitions for the region.

‘Your South of Scotland’ will also allow us to report back on how previous engagement has helped shape our initial focus and highlight some of the work and the difference its support has made to the South.

How do I sign up to an event and what are the dates?

All venues used during ‘Your South of Scotland’ engagement tour will be COVID-safe, with booking required in advance. 

For those unable to attend, there will be two virtual sessions held, with one of the physical events expected to also be streamed over SOSE’s social media channels.

Each event will run from 6.45pm to 8pm:

Phase one

Phase two

Chief Executive Jane Morrison-Ross

“We are very proud of our achievements to date, which include approving funding totalling around £28million to more than 620 local businesses, organisations and community groups, and assisting over 700 clients through one to one, tailored advice and support during 2020/21.

“Now we are firmly focused on the future and our ongoing plans to listen, be innovative, different and deliver for the South of Scotland.

“These engagement sessions are crucial to achieving these aims and helping to ensure your South of Scotland earns a reputation as a centre of opportunity, innovation and growth.

“I would encourage all those who live, work and care about the South to engage with us, either through attending one of our 24 dates or one of our virtual sessions.”

Chair Professor Russel Griggs

“Your views helped shape South of Scotland Enterprise as we were established on 1 April 2020.

“Since then, SOSE have spoken to thousands of people across the region to discuss ideas, offer advice and provide support, and now for the first time the people of the South of Scotland have the opportunity to engage with us in-person.

“Jane and I would love to hear your views and get your feedback on our work so far, and what should be our priorities going forward.

“Our message – as it has been since day one of SOSE – is please come and talk to us.”