What's next for crofting? Inside the plan to make the Commission fit for the future

For many, the word "crofting" conjures images of windswept landscapes, resilient communities, and a unique way of life deeply intertwined with the land, writes Andrew Thin, chair of the Crofting Commission.

At the Crofting Commission, our role is to regulate and promote the interests of crofting, ensuring its enduring contribution to Scotland's social, economic, and environmental fabric. In this article, I want to share some of our ongoing efforts to strengthen crofting by enhancing accessibility, ensuring fairness, and broadening the perspectives that guide our work.

Looking to the future, the strength and vitality of the Crofting Commission itself depends on the diverse perspectives and experiences of those who guide it.

The Crofting Commission acts as a steward for this vital system, a system that extends beyond mere land management to encompass a distinct cultural heritage and a powerful sense of community. We see firsthand the positive impact crofting has – from maintaining fragile rural populations and supporting biodiversity to fostering local food production and preserving traditional skills. These benefits ripple outwards, enriching the wider Scottish society.

However, we recognise that to ensure crofting continues to thrive, we must constantly evolve and adapt. A key focus for the Commission has been on making our work more accessible to everyone. This starts with how we communicate. We are actively reviewing our public-facing output, striving to use plain English wherever possible. Our aim is to demystify processes and ensure that information about crofting law, regulation, and opportunities is clear and easily understood by all, whether they are existing crofters, potential new entrants, or simply interested members of the public.

Beyond communication, we are committed to ensuring fairness and consistency in our processes. We are undertaking a thorough review and streamlining of our internal procedures to guarantee that decisions are made in a transparent and equitable manner. This work is crucial to building trust within the crofting community and ensuring that the regulatory framework operates effectively for everyone involved.

Looking to the future, the strength and vitality of the Crofting Commission itself depends on the diverse perspectives and experiences of those who guide it. We are actively encouraging applications for the role of Commissioner from as wide a range of people as possible. To achieve this, we are proactively engaging with stakeholder organisations across Scotland to reach individuals who may not traditionally see themselves represented in this role. We believe that a Commission enriched by diverse backgrounds and viewpoints will be better equipped to understand and respond to the evolving needs of crofting communities.

Crofting is more than just a land tenure system; it is a cornerstone of many rural communities in Scotland. By focusing on accessibility, fairness, and inclusivity, the Crofting Commission aims to strengthen these communities and ensure that crofting continues to be a vibrant and sustainable way of life for generations to come. We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to build a brighter future for crofting, one where its benefits are understood and accessible to all.

We encourage readers of the Law Society of Scotland’s Journal to engage with our work and learn more about the vital role crofting plays in Scotland today. The Crofting Commission is seeking new appointed Commissioners.