A space for connection, collaboration, and action
We’re excited to announce more details about our new Thematic Circles, our way for community groups and community organisations in Midlothian to engage with areas of interest, learn from one another and work together to develop collaborative projects that take action on issues that matter most to you.
These four Circles—Biodiversity, Food, Energy & Heat, and Reuse, Share & Repair—have been shaped by the conversations, gatherings, and feedback we’ve had over the past year. These themes reflect the priorities of our community and the areas where we believe we can make the biggest impact together.
What are the Circles?
The Circles are safe spaces to create meaningful connections, support and empower one another and respond to the climate and nature crisis in Midlothian. They’re open to anyone in Midlothian who works with communities and is passionate about taking action on climate and nature. Whether you’re part of a community group, an organisation, or an individual with a keen interest, there’s a place for you.
Here’s what to expect:
- Peer Learning: Share knowledge, skills, and experiences with others who are equally passionate about creating change.
- Collaborative Projects: Work together to develop projects that address the climate and nature crisis while building resilient communities.
- Flexible Engagement: Choose how involved you’d like to be—whether it’s attending meetings, contributing ideas, or leading initiatives.
- A Shared Vision: Each Circle will develop its own vision, guiding its work and ensuring it stays aligned with the needs and wants of its members.
- Hub Support: Each Circle with be administered by a designated member of the Hub staff team who will provide support where possible, helping to facilitate meetings, share resources, and connect Circles with funding and expertise.
How do the Circles work?
The Circles are designed to be inclusive, flexible, and community-led.
- Open to All: Any group or individual working with communities in Midlothian can join. Community groups are encouraged to become MCAN members. Individuals who do not wish to join/represent a group are welcome to participate and contribute, although they won’t have voting rights.
- Community-Led: Each Circle will decide its own structure, meeting frequency, and communication methods. MCAN staff will provide support, but the direction of the Circles will be driven by their members.
- Decision-Making: Decisions will be made by consensus wherever possible, with voting used only when necessary. MCAN member organisations will have voting rights, while individuals can contribute their insights and ideas.
Why join a Circle?
The Circles are more than just meetings—they’re a chance to:
- Connect with like-minded people who share your passion for climate and nature action.
- Gain support and inspiration to develop projects that make a real difference in Midlothian.
- Learn from others and share your own expertise to build a stronger, more resilient community.
- Be part of a collective effort to tackle the climate and nature crisis in a way that’s meaningful and impactful.
What’s next?
Between April and June, we’ll be launching each of the four Circles, starting with Biodiversity and Food and followed by Energy and Reuse, Share & Repair. Each Circle will begin with a visioning meeting to set its priorities and goals, ensuring that the work we do together is focused, collaborative, and impactful.
If you’re interested in joining a Circle, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re part of a community group or an individual with a passion for climate action, there’s a place for you in this growing network. Together, we can create a more sustainable, resilient, and connected Midlothian.
To get involved or learn more, contact:
- Cory (Biodiversity and Food) at cory.maccormack@midlothianclimateaction.org.uk
- Bruno (Energy & Heat and Reuse, Share & Repair) at bruno.santos@midlothianclimateaction.org.uk.
We can’t wait to see what we can achieve together!
