The Scottish Parliament must act to create a more equal and prosperous Scotland that places the wellbeing of our most disadvantaged communities front and centre. Here is how.
SURF’s expertise in community led regeneration spans multiple sectors and disciplines, knowledge drawn from our Awards. Every year, the nominees are community stars against an often darker, colder background. They demonstrate the Place Principle in action, bridging the gap between abstract policy and rigorous practice.
Despite these successes, four major barriers continue to block aspiration, cutting across all aspects of community led regeneration. Addressing these will substantially improve health and economic outcomes, reduce inequalities, and save money by reducing demand on public services.
About SURF
Scotland’s Regeneration Forum’s overall objective is to improve the lives and opportunities of residents in Scotland’s disadvantaged communities. The SURF Membership network includes community groups, local authorities, housing associations, health boards, academic institutions, professional bodies, voluntary organisations and charities.
SURF has advocated two fundamental principles since 1992:
- Successful and sustainable regeneration is only achievable when all aspects of physical, social, economic and cultural regeneration are addressed in a holistic approach.
- The people who are the intended beneficiaries of any regeneration effort must be meaningfully involved in the process if it is to be successful in planning, implementation and maintenance.
Developing this Manifesto
This Manifesto was developed through extensive engagement with our membership and network. Each of our four priorities includes a series of specific proposals, balancing bold, strategic, and broad-ranging visions with smaller, implementable actions that an incoming Scottish Government can deliver. It has been cross-referenced with other manifestos across a variety of sectors, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach at all levels.
From 2026 to 2031 SURF will be asking Members of the Scottish Parliament how they are delivering on these priorities to create a more equal and prosperous Scotland. Our policy work will continue to focus on these four themes, which should be the overarching priority of any incoming government.
Policy Synergies
The SURF manifesto was informed and shaped by best-practice and expertise from across the sector. The below image highlights overlaps in policy between SURF and other manifestos produced by key stakeholders for the 2026 election. Our work over the course of the next parliament will involve working collaboratively across the sector to deliver proactive policy change.
BEFS – Built Environment Forum Scotland
CLHA – Community Led Housing Alliance
CTA – Community Transport Association
SCA – Scottish Community Alliance