Applications are now closed.

Knowledge is Power is a programme to support community-led action research across Scotland.

Community-led action research is where the community decides on the issue to be researched, designs and carries out the research, and makes use of the results to achieve positive change.  Read more here.

We’ll be supporting six community organisations to carry out community-led action research with their communities of place, identity or interest.

How to apply

Applications have now closed.

To discuss the application process, please do get in touch.

Frequently asked questions

What type of support is on offer?

We will support six community groups to carry out community-led action research on an issue that matters to them and to use the research to make change happen.

The support will consist of group training in community-led action research with tailored on-site support and advice to help you deliver a community-led action research project. There will also be opportunities to work together and share learning with other participating community projects.

What sort of community group can apply?

We want to support community groups working with, and consisting of, people from marginalised and excluded communities. These could be people living in a neighbourhood experiencing poverty or people who face barriers, share an identity or equality protected characteristics, such as being disabled, LGBTQ or Black and Minority Ethnic (BME).

We’re happy to accept joint applications with other community organisations.

Is there money available?

Knowledge is Power isn’t a fund and we’re providing support by offering tools, guidance and building the skills of the groups we work with.

Support costs are available to help the successful groups to deliver community-led action research project. This might include running costs such as venues and research materials. It might also include the cost of making sure people can take part, such as translation, childcare, travel and personal assistance.

How will groups be chosen?

We have produced a selection criteria to help make sure we’re working with groups which are best suited to be involved in the programme, and which will benefit from the support provided.

The support team will review applications based on these criteria, so we ask that you take a look at them as you apply for the programme.

Who are the support team?

Knowledge is Power is a programme from the Scottish Community Development Centre and The Poverty Alliance - the support team is made up of staff from both organisations who have lots of experience working with community organisations and around community-led action research. You can get in touch with us here.

You can download more FAQs here.