1. Residents
  2. Schools, Early Years and Learning
  3. Gaelic Language Plan 2024-2029
  4. Gaelic Language Plan 2024-2029

Gaelic Language Plan 2024-2029

A Gaelic version of this plan is available to view and download

Easy Read Gaelic Language Plan 2024 to 2029 is available to view and download

This draft plan has been prepared under Section 3 of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 and was submitted approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on 22 March 2024

Foreword

I am delighted to introduce the Gaelic Language Plan 2024-29, which sets out our aims, ambition, and commitment to promoting and supporting the use of the Gaelic language in East Dunbartonshire. We recognise the importance of Gaelic as a vital part of Scotland’s cultural heritage and as an official language of Scotland. East Dunbartonshire Council continues to acknowledge the significance of the Gaelic language, culture, and education recognising their invaluable contribution to both local and national cultural heritage. Our unwavering commitment lies in aligning with the National Gaelic Language Plan and fulfilling our obligations mandated by the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005, all of which are essential for securing a sustainable future for Gaelic in Scotland.

Building upon the achievement of the prior Gaelic Language Plans spanning 2013-18 and 2018-23, this edition of East Dunbartonshire Gaelic Language Plan provides a comprehensive blueprint detailing our concerted efforts to enhance Gaelic learning and promote the use of the Gaelic language within East Dunbartonshire. In crafting this plan, we have engaged in close collaboration with colleagues from various Council Services, collaborated with Bòrd na Gàidhlig (the primary public entity responsible for advancing Gaelic development in Scotland) and involvement of key stakeholders.

We believe that the Gaelic language has an important role to play in promoting diversity and inclusion, and we are committed to working with Gaelic-speaking communities and individuals to help support the language and its continued use.

We acknowledge that there are challenges to be addressed in promoting the Gaelic language including the need for more resources and support for Gaelic language education and the need to increase the number of Gaelic speakers. However, we are committed to working collaboratively with other public bodies and stakeholders to overcome these challenges and ensure that the Gaelic language continues to thrive in East Dunbartonshire.

The insights derived from the 2022 Census will serve as a pivotal foundation for our comprehension of Gaelic in East Dunbartonshire. These insights will guide us as we strive to realise our Strategic Priorities and Corporate Service aims. This endeavour stands as a fundamental element in our ongoing commitment to safeguard the status of Gaelic and its integral role in the community.

We hope that our Gaelic Language Plan will encourage other organisations to take active steps to support the Gaelic language and its speakers. We look forward to working with our communities, stakeholders, partners, and staff to implement our plan and help support the Gaelic language and its vibrant culture.

Council Leader
Gordan Low

Introduction

East Dunbartonshire Council is in the west central lowlands of Scotland. It is located to the north of the river Clyde and to the east of the City of Glasgow. The council covers an area of approximately 67 square miles and has a population of around 109,000 people. The main towns in East Dunbartonshire including Bearsden, Milngavie, Bishopbriggs and Kirkintilloch. The area is known for our beautiful scenery with hills, woodlands and countryside surrounding our towns and villages. We are also known for our historic landmarks including the Antonine Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Since forming in 1996, East Dunbartonshire Council has been recognised as a progressive, and efficient council. Committed to serving the needs of its residents and workers. The council currently employs around 5,281 individuals who provide a diverse range of services across the area. The council’s headquarters are located at the Marina, Kirkintilloch.

At our Council Budget Meeting we agreed our General Revenue Budget for 2023/24 and revised Capital Programme. With estimated expenditure of just over £322 million and available funding of £301.4 million, the funding gap of £20.6 million was the largest the Council has ever faced in a one-year period. A Council Tax increase of 5% was agreed, reducing the financial gap by an additional £1.37 million and increasing the annual Band D charge by £67.41. Community engagement and participation is absolutely at the heart of the decisions we are making.

One of 32 Scottish Councils East Dunbartonshire is split into multi-member wards, with three or four councillors to represent the interests of their local community in the council. The seven multimember wards are;

  • Ward 1 – Milngavie
  • Ward 2 - Bearsden North
  • Ward 3 - Bearsden South
  • Ward 4 - Bishopbriggs North and Campsie
  • Ward 5 - Bishopbriggs South
  • Ward 6 - Lenzie and Kirkintilloch South
  • Ward 7 - Kirkintilloch East and North and Twechar

The 2022 Local Council elections resulted in a minority, which is led by the Scottish National Party.

  • Scottish National Party: 8
  • Scottish Labour Party: 4
  • Scottish Conservative & Unionist Party: 2
  • Scottish Liberal Democrats: 6
  • Independent: 2

Gaelic in East Dunbartonshire

According to results from the 2011 Census, 0.9% of the East Dunbartonshire population could speak Gaelic, and 1% of the population had knowledge of the Gaelic Language. The following provides more detailed information.

  • Understands spoken Gaelic but cannot speak, read or write: 351
  • Speaks, reads and writes Gaelic: 498
  • Speaks but neither reads nor writes Gaelic: 336
  • Speaks and reads but cannot write Gaelic: 83
  • Reads and/or writes but does not speak Gaelic: 72
  • All people aged 3+ able to speak, write, read or understand Gaelic: 1,340
  • No knowledge of Gaelic: 100,659
  • All people aged 3+: 101,999

Those with Gaelic language abilities reside across the communities in East Dunbartonshire, however, there are slightly higher concentrations in Bearsden, Bishopbriggs, Kirkintilloch and Milngavie.

Gaelic within Scotland

The release of the 2022 Census will provide us with updated insights into the status of Gaelic in Scotland. According to the 2011 Census, approximately 87,100 individuals in Scotland (approximately 17% of the population) possessed some level of Gaelic language skills. Among these individuals:

  • 32,400 were proficient in understanding, speaking, reading and writing Gaelic
  • 57,600 could speak Gaelic
  • 6,100 could read and/or write Gaelic but did not speak it
  • 23,400 could understand Gaelic but were unable to speak, read or write it

While there was a slight increase in the number of individuals (aged three and older) with comprehensive Gaelic language skills between 2001 and 2011 Censuses, rising from 31,500 in 2001 to 32,400 in 2011, there was a discernible downward trend concerning Gaelic language skills in Scotland.

  • The number of people (aged three and older) proficient in speaking Gaelic declined by 1.8% between 2001 and 2011
  • The number of individuals (aged three and older) capable of reading or writing Gaelic decreased by 13.2% between 2001 and 2011
  • The number of individuals (aged three and older) able to understand Gaelic but unable to speak, read or write it, declined by 12.6% between 2001 and 2011

On St Andrew’s Day in 2019, Scottish Gaelic was introduced as a course on the online platform, Duolingo. As of March 2022, the Scottish Gaelic course had attached 1.12 million learners, with 431,000 of these learners actively engaging with the course. Remarkably 25% of these learners’ hail from the UK. Duolingo has since partnered with Sabhai Mor Ostaig to further enhance the course’s development.

The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005

The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005, ratified by the Scottish Parliament, was enacted with the intent of establishing Gaelic language as an official language of Scotland, affording it equal recognition alongside the English language.

A prominent aspect of the 2005 Act is it provision empowering Bòrd na Gàidhlig to mandate public authorities to formulate a Gaelic Language Plan. This provision was designed to ensure that the Scottish public sector actively contribute to building a sustainable future for Gaelic. It achieves this by elevating the language’s status and visibility while also creating practical avenues for its utilisation.

The document at hand represents East Dunbartonshire Council’s proposed Gaelic Language Plan, meticulously crafted within the framework of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005. It delineates our approach to incorporating Gaelic into our operational functions, facilitating the use of Gaelic when engaging with the public and key partners, and fostering the promotion and development of the Gaelic language.

This Gaelic language plan has been developed in adherence of the statutory criteria in the 2005 Act. Additionally, it has been developed with due considerations to the National Gaelic Language Plan and the Guidance on the Development of Gaelic Language Plan.

The National Gaelic Language Plan

East Dunbartonshire Council stands firmly behind the objective set forth in the National Gaelic Language Plan, which seeks to promote the more extensive use of Gaelic, involving broader spectrum of individuals, and across various contexts. Our commitment to realising this objective is demonstrated through our dedicated efforts, aligning with the overarching goals of the National Gaelic Language Plan:

  • Increasing the use of Gaelic within our organisation and encouraging more people to use Gaelic, more often when they interact with us
  • Increasing the opportunity for people to learn Gaelic as part of our day-to-day operations
  • Promoting a positive image of Gaelic whenever we can as part of our day-to-day operations as an organisation

Internal Gaelic Capacity Audit

East Dunbartonshire Council is set to undertake an internal language capacity assessment of its workforce, as an integral component of the preparations for this Gaelic Language Plan. This language capacity audit will be carried out in strict accordance with our statutory obligations as mandated by the 2005 Act and the accompanying guidance. The primary objectives of this audit are twofold:

  • To enhance our comprehension of the Gaelic language proficiencies among our staff members within East Dunbartonshire Council
  • To ascertain the extent of interest and demand for Gaelic language training opportunities within our staff cohort

Consultation on the draft Gaelic Lanugage Plan

In accordance with the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005, public authorities are mandated to seek input on their draft Gaelic Language Plan before its submission to Bòrd na Gàidhlig. The pre-consultation period was carried out with stakeholders and findings informed the consultation methods to consult on our Draft Gaelic Language Plan 2024-29.

In accordance with our commitment to the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 we embarked on consultation and engagement for our draft Gaelic Language plan 2024-2029, The consultation took place between 6th November 2023 until 17th December 2023. We received 253 online survey responses. In addition, 68 individuals participated in our four focus group sessions, including community, third sector and organisations representing equality groups. Local schools were involved as were youth clubs and neuro diverse groups. Participants included people from ethnic minority groups as well as support groups for mental health and wellbeing.

We have meticulously reviewed all received responses. We did not consider that the public consultation suggested any requirement for a fundamental change to the proposed plan. The existing plan is sufficiently flexible to consider many of the points raised by respondents.

Key Principles

Equal Respect

Under the provisions of the 2005 Act, Bòrd na Gàidhlig actively works towards establishing the Gaelic language as an official language of Scotland, hoping equal stature with the English language. Consequently, Bòrd na Gàidhlig anticipates that public authorities will demonstrate with their plans how this principle will be effectively implemented and sustained in practice.

East Dunbartonshire Council is committed to guaranteeing that any Gaelic components integrated into our operations and services are held to the same standards of quality and excellence as those provided in English.

Active Offer

East Dunbartonshire Council will proactively extend an offer of our Gaelic services to our employees and the public. This proactive approach ensures that Gaelic service availability is clearly communicated to Gaelic users, actively encouraging their utilisation. This approach will support confidence among Gaelic users, assuring them that their preference will be accommodated.

Normalising

The primary objective of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 is to foster the sustainability and growth of the Gaelic language and its associated culture. East Dunbartonshire Council will endeavour to normalise opportunities for the public and our staff to use Gaelic, aligning with the objectives outlined in the National Gaelic Language Plan.

Plan Commitments

Increasing the use of Gaelic

Strategic Priority

Work with partners and businesses to increase both the use and awareness of the Gaelic language throughout East Dunbartonshire.

Desired Outcome

Encourage more people to use Gaelic in East Dunbartonshire by supporting communities to host Gaelic events. Make more people know about Gaelic in East Dunbartonshire by using signs in two languages in places like buildings and the boundary sign coat of arms.

Current Practice

Right now, in East Dunbartonshire, we’re helping people know about Gaelic by using signs in two languages. Gaelic events and opportunities are promoted through East Dunbartonshire Council and East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust.

Increasing the use of Gaelic

Actions Required

  1. Plan a campaign in partnership with key council services to raise awareness of Gaelic generally and raise awareness of Cleachdi Initiative
  2. Signpost for use Cleachdi materials where appropriate
  3. Increase posts on relevant campaigns and events in both languages on East Dunbartonshire Council Social Media channels.
  4. When needed, change old or broken signs and information at places with signs that have two languages on them and increase the number of signs
  5. Looking at road signs we currently have, explore where we could add or change signs with two languages on roads across East Dunbartonshire including at the edges of our communities. Ensuring the names of places are right by getting advice from Ainmean-Aite na h-Alba when needed

Measurement Method

  1. Produce a communication report outlining impact of campaign to promote the Gaelic Language Plan
  2. The Cleachdi Initiative – Bòrd na Gàidhlig (gaidhlig.scot)
  3. Produce digital content for the relevant campaigns
  4. Record baseline of current signs in two languages. Increase the number of bilingual signs at venues across East Dunbartonshire
  5. In our road’s asset management programme, we’ll check and find important spots where signs, complying with TSRGD (Traffic Signs Regulations & General Directions) with two languages could be introduced. We’ll also replace old signs when they need to be changed, in compliance with TSRGD

Target Date

  1. Plan in Q3 and Q4 (2023-24) for delivery in Q1 (2025.)
  2. Plan in Q3 and Q4 (2023-24) for delivery in Q1/Q2 (2024)
  3. Plan in Q2 for delivery in Q3 (2023) and Plan in Q1/2 for delivery in Q3(2024)
  4. Conduct baseline in Q3/4 (2023-24) Plan in Q1/2 and deliver Q3/4 (2024-25)
  5. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver throughout lifetime of plan

Responsibility

  1. Communication & Engagement Team, Community Planning & Partnership Team, All services, East Dunbartonshire Business Community
  2. Communication & Engagement Team, Community Planning & Partnership Team, All services, East Dunbartonshire Business Community
  3. Communication & Engagement Team, Community Planning & Partnership Team, All services, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Business Community
  4. Communication & Engagement Team, Community Planning & Partnership Team, All services, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Communities, East Dunbartonshire Business Community
  5. Community Planning & Partnership Team, Roads Service, Communication and Engagement Team, All services, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Communities

Increasing the learning of Gaelic

Strategic Priority

Ensure that the plan implementation is led with representation from all key service areas within the Council.

Desired Outcome

The Equalities Action Planning Forum will agree terms of reference and meet quarterly and monitor progress made, with summary reports compiled to form an annual report for each year of the Plan.

Current Practice

The operational officer’s forum meets in-frequently.

Action Required

  1. Review the terms of reference for the Equalities Action Planning Forum
  2. Equalities Action Planning Forum meets quarterly to plan delivery and monitor progress
  3. Provide an annual report advising of progress of that year in relation to the Gaelic Language Plan (2023-28)

Measurement Method

  1. Agree the terms of reference for the Equalities Action Planning forum and schedule meetings
  2. A record of meetings will be noted and disseminated to members. Summary report from Equalities Action Planning forum will be collated, including a RAG status of indicators
  3. An annual monitoring report which will include summary reports will be presented to East Dunbartonshire Council for approval and then to Bord na Gaidhlig and East Dunbartonshire Community Planning Partnership Board

Target Date

  1. November 2023
  2. Meet once per quarter per year lifetime of the plan
  3. Plan for in Q1/2/3 and produce report Q4 every year of the lifetime of the plan

Responsibility

  1. Community Planning & Partnership Team, Key services, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust
  2. Community Planning & Partnership Team, Key services, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust
  3. Community Planning & Partnership Team, Key services, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, East Dunbartonshire Business Community, East Dunbartonshire Community Planning, Partnership

Strategic Priority

Undertake the duty under the Education (Scotland) Act 2016 to promote & support Gaelic Education; ensuring the retention of pupils at key transitional phases, promoting an increase in numbers enrolling in GME and ensuring annual improvement plans are in place to provide standards and quality reporting.

Desired Outcome

Continue to promote increased numbers enrolled in Gaelic Medium Education (GME) and retention at transitional phases throughout 3-18 GME delivery.

Current Practice

Parents are aware of Gaelic Medium Education (GME) during the early years and P1 registration process. Our 3-18 delivery ensures that EDC pupils are enrolled in Bishopbriggs Academy to continue in GME. Meadowburn Primary School and Bishopbriggs Academy report on impact through the school's Standards and Qualities report and set specific goals for Gaelic their yearly improvement plans.

Actions Required

  1. We will advertise and promote our delivery of 3-18 Gaelic Medium Education (GME) across the council area, as part of our campaigns for early years and P1 enrolment
  2. Within our school improvement plans we will set specific goals for our Gaelic Medium Education and report impact through our annual standards and qualities reports
  3. Ensure that GME parents/carers are informed of the offer available for continuing with GME during secondary education at Bishopbriggs Academy
  4. Development of Family Learning Opportunities and events
  5. The Council will engage with parents and the Gaelic community to conduct a consultation on GME Early Years provision

Measurement Method

  1. We will include impact of campaign posts in digital communication section outlining of annual monitoring report. We will record the number of communitybased opportunities promoting GME, including New Scot events, bookbug sessions. We will record enrolment
  2. Submissions monitored and quality assured by the link Quality Improvement Officer and moderated by the wider Quality Improvement Team
  3. We will monitor the update of Gaelic at secondary stages. We will provide young people and their families/carers with clear and accurate information about the benefits of Gaelic education, the curriculum, and the potential career opportunities
  4. Participation data collected and analysed, Feedback from Learners, Feedback from Parents/Carers, Evaluations from Family Learning Assistant
  5. Feedback from all stakeholders

Target Date

  1. Plan for in Q4 2023 and implement Q1 2024, and subsequent years for the lifetime of the plan
  2. Lifetime of the plan by school session
  3. Plan for in Q4 2023 and implement Q1 2024, and subsequent years for the lifetime of the plan
  4. Lifetime of the plan by school session
  5. Implementation by 2025

Responsibility

  1. Education, Communication and Engagement Team, Gaelic Communities, Community Toddler Groups, Nurseries, Partner Child Minders, After school provisions, East Dunbartonshire Communities, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, East Dunbartonshire Businesses
  2. Education Service, Pupil Council, Parent Council
  3. Education Service (Bishopbriggs Academy), East Dunbartonshire Communities, East Dunbartonshire Business Community
  4. Education Service (Head Teachers)
  5. Education Service

Strategic Priority

As the Gaelic Medium primary school roll increases, consult on how to further enhance the immersion experience for pupils.

Desired Outcome

Pupils have improved language skills and deeper engagement with the Gaelic language, beyond the curriculum.

Current Practice

Ongoing work with the Gaelic school community and Comunn nam Parant, as well as close working between Sgoil Araich, Meadowburn Gaelic unit and Bishopbriggs Academy. Stakeholder consultation takes place throughout each school session, with data collected analysed and acted upon to inform next steps.

Actions Required

  1. Develop a consultation mandate in collaboration with stakeholders
  2. Promote the work of the Gaelic Language and Culture within East Dunbartonshire

Measurement Method

  1. A consultation plan will be produced. Collation and analysis of stakeholder feedback. Action Plan (informing School Improvement Planning and Service Planning)
  2. We will develop our good relationships with our Gaelic Community, and community planning partners including East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust. We will record the number of Gaelic Bookbug delivered sessions

Target Date

  1. Plan Q3/4, year 2025-26), delivered in Q1/2 (2026-27)
  2. Plan Q3/4, year 2024-25), delivered in Q1/2 (2026-27)

Responsibility

  1. Education Services
  2. East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture, Trust - Bookbug, Communication and Engagement Team, Community Planning and Partnership Team, East Dunbartonshire Community Planning, Partnership, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Communities, East Dunbartonshire Businesses

Strategic Priority

Expand the Gaelic Medium Curriculum offer at Secondary level each session.

Desired Outcome

Provide a more immersive experience to GME pupils and increase the number of Gaelic Medium attainment opportunities available at pupils at secondary level.

Current Practice

Pupils continue in GME through delivery of Gàidhlig curriculum. Senior phase pupils can choose to continue with Gàidhlig at national qualification level at each stage, as BA delivers N4-Advanced Higher Gàidhlig qualification.

Actions Required

  1. Develop a consultation mandate in collaboration with stakeholders
  2. Promote the work of the Gaelic Language and Culture within East Dunbartonshire

Measurement Method

  1. A consultation plan will be produced. Collation and analysis of stakeholder feedback. Action Plan (informing School Improvement Planning and Service Planning)
  2. We will develop our good relationships with our Gaelic Community, and community planning partners including East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust. We will record the number of Gaelic Bookbug delivered sessions

Target Date

  1. Plan Q3/4, year 2025-26), delivered in Q1/2 (2026-27)
  2. Plan Q3/4, year 2024-25), delivered in Q1/2 (2026-27)

Responsibility

  1. Education Services
  2. East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust - Bookbug, Communication and Engagement Team, Community Planning and Partnership Team, East Dunbartonshire Community Planning Partnership, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Communities, East Dunbartonshire Businesses

Strategic Priority

Expand the Gaelic Medium Curriculum offer at Secondary level each session.

Desired Outcome

Provide a more immersive experience to GME pupils and increase the number of Gaelic Medium attainment opportunities available at pupils at secondary level.

Current Practice

Pupils continue in GME through delivery of Gàidhlig curriculum. Senior phase pupils can choose to continue with Gàidhlig at national qualification level at each stage, as BA delivers N4-Advanced Higher Gàidhlig qualification.

Actions Required

  1. Explore opportunities to expand teaching and support staffing levels to expand the delivery of quality secondary Gaelic Medium Education provision
  2. Continue to have strong partnerships with primary schools to deliver work experience opportunities for Gaelic Medium Education pupils
  3. Continue to build partnership with appropriate Gaelic organisations to deliver a wide range of cultural experience

Measurement Method

  1. Workforce Planning
  2. Record the number of work experience opportunities offered. Record the number of work experience opportunities taken up
  3. Establish the “Unity Inclusion forum” to ensure community voice is heard. Conduct a comprehensive stakeholder mapping and profiling of organised Gaelic organisations. Record participation in the “Unity Inclusion Forum”

Target Date

  1. Assess Q1 and implement Q2 every year lifetime of the plan
  2. Annually throughout the lifetime of the plan
  3. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and Deliver Q1/2 for subsequent years of lifetime of the plan

Responsibility

  1. Education Services, Pupils, Pupil council and Parent Council.
  2. Education Services, Pupils, Pupil council and Parent Council, Skills for Learning, Life and Work Team
  3. Community Planning & Partnership Team, Communication and Engagement Team, Communities, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, East Dunbartonshire Community Planning Partnership, East Dunbartonshire Businesses

Strategic Priority

Building upon current progress, promote Gaelic as an L3 (Second Modern Language) to all primary schools with the aim of growing the number of schools offering Gaelic as an L3 (Second Modern Language)

Desired Outcome

A broader and more widespread adoption of Gaelic language learning among children and young people, contributing to preserving and revitalising the Gaelic language.

Current Practice

L3 in the Primary Sector

The use of a planned interdisciplinary approach and aspects of citizenship and international education is one way of introducing the L3 language. Increasing use of planned interdisciplinary learning (one of the four contexts for learning within CfE) facilitates learning about aspects of other countries across the curriculum. In our primary schools for example, projects about other countries can involve aspects of language, geography, history, environmental studies and the expressive arts, together with health and wellbeing. The other country can become a focus for learning across the school.

Actions Required

  1. Annually promote and support CareerLong Professional Learning in Gaelic to all teaching staff
  2. Annual information session offered, in collaboration with Meadowburn GME unit, to all interested East Dunbartonshire staff to promote Gaelic language and culture within schools

Measurement Method

  1. Monitor and record the number of staff participating in Gaelic CLPL. Monitor feedback from CLPL courses
  2. Monitor and record the number of staff in attendance at information sessions. Monitor feedback from sessions

Target Date

  1. Annually throughout the lifetime of the plan
  2. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver subsequent years

Responsibility

  1. Education Services
  2. Education Services

Corporate Service Aims

Desired Outcome

  1. Logo and Brand - East Dunbartonshire Council logo and branding into both Gaelic and English
  2. Signage Signage - will include Gaelic and English as part of any renewal process

Current Practice

  1. The East Dunbartonshire Council logo is bilingual
  2. Bilingual signage is currently in place across East Dunbartonshire

Actions Required

  1. We will aim to continue the progress that has been made in identifying opportunities that arise to render Civic Crest in both Gaelic and English
  2. We will explore in partnership with the Gaelic community review the suitability of replacing signage in key venues, and road signage. We will check and find important spots where signs, complying with TSRGD (Traffic Signs Regulations & General Directions) with two languages could be introduced. We’ll also replace old signs when they need to be changed, in compliance with TSRGD

Target Date

  1. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24). Deliver Q 1/2 (2024-25)
  2. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of the lifetime of plan

Responsibility

  1. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, Equalities Action Planning Forum.
  2. East Dunbartonshire Council Roads Department, Equalities Action Planning Forum, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Communities.

Communicating with the public

Desired Outcome

  1. Promotion - Positive messages that communication from the public in Gaelic is always welcome and regularly repeated
  2. Written Communication - Written communication in Gaelic is always accepted (post, email and social media), and replies provided in Gaelic in accordance with the general policy
  3. Reception - and phone Where Gaelic speaking staff can provide this service they are supported to do so
  4. Public Meetings Opportunities to hold public meetings bilingually or in Gaelic are regularly explored and promoted

Current Practice

  1. There is a webpage on East Dunbartonshire Council’s website for the Gaelic Language Plan 2020-23 and additional webpages for Gaelic Medium Education. Neither state we welcome communication from the public in Gaelic
  2. It does not state on East Dunbartonshire Council’s website that written communication in Gaelic is always accepted. There are no training modules for staff in relation to responding to Gaelic correspondence
  3. There is currently no Gaelic speaking staff to provide reception and phone services in East Dunbartonshire Council, except within Gaelic Medium provision
  4. East Dunbartonshire Council has not had the opportunity to host a public meeting bilingually

Actions Required

  1. We will promote welcoming and acceptance of communication Gaelic and will endeavour to provide replies in Gaelic. We will look to distribute Gaelic related news releases in both Gaelic and English in consultation with the Gaelic and wider Community. We will frequently (minimum of four posts per year) circulate Gaelic content through social media
  2. We will review current information on our website, as part of our refreshed website. We will explore the solutions and process to support sustainable implementation across East Dunbartonshire to respond to Gaelic communication received
  3. We will explore the suitability and sustainability of implementing this corporate service aim
  4. We will explore the suitability and sustainability of implementing this corporate service aim. We will explore the opportunities and sustainability of embedding opportunities in the consultation and monitoring of the Gaelic Language Plan 2024-29. We will host events with New Scots incorporating Gaelic language

Target Date

  1. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of the plan. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1,2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  2. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  3. Identify baseline of request, plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  4. Identify baseline of request, plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan. Plan in Q3/4 and deliver in Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of plan. Plan in Q3/4 and deliver in Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of plan

Responsibility

  1. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  2. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  3. East Dunbartonshire Council Customer Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  4. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum

Information

Desired Outcome

  1. News Releases - Press releases and all news releases related to Gaelic are available in both Gaelic and English
  2. Social Media - Gaelic content distributed regularly through social media
  3. Website Gaelic - content should be available on the public authority’s website potential reach
  4. Corporate Publications - Produced in Gaelic and English, with priority given to those with the highest potential reach and impact
  5. Language - A process is in place to ensure that the quality and accessibility of Gaelic language in all corporate information is high
  6. Exhibitions - Opportunities to deliver public exhibitions bilingually or in Gaelic should be explored on a regular basis, with priority given to those with highest potential impact

Current Practice

  1. All news releases are currently released only in English. News releases relevant to Gaelic are published predominantly in English. News releases would be available in Gaelic on request
  2. We do not provide social media posts across Council social media platforms
  3. We currently have our Gaelic Language Plan 2020-23 available on our website in Gaelic
  4. The Gaelic Language plan (2020-23) have been published bilingually. All other corporate documents are available on request
  5. Translation and interpretation for corporate information and documents is currently conducted by a qualified external third party, that adheres to SQA Orthographic Conventions
  6. East Dunbartonshire Council understand the central role played by arts and heritage in sustaining and growing engagement and increase use of Gaelic across Scotland

Actions Required

  1. We will explore the suitability and sustainability of implementing this corporate service aim. We will explore Gaelic media and circulate related news releases.
  2. We will explore where relevant to do so, to ensure that relevant social media content is bilingual
  3. We will explore the suitability and sustainability of implementing this corporate service aim. Agree process between education and comms/services to get information translated
  4. We will aim to explore the suitability and sustainability across the Council to identify corporate publications where appropriate

Target Date

  1. Identify baseline of request, plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  2. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  3. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  4. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent year of Plan
  5. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  6. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan

Responsibility

  1. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  2. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  3. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  4. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services Equalities Action Planning Forum
  5. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services Equalities Action Planning Forum
  6. East Dunbartonshire Council Communication and Engagement Team East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services Equalities Action Planning Forum East Dunbartonshire Community Planning Partners

Staff

Desired Outcome

  1. Internal Audit - Conduct an internal audit of Gaelic skills and training needs through the life of teach edition of the plan
  2. Induction - Knowledge of the public authority’s Gaelic language plan and training opportunities are embedded in new staff induction
  3. Language Training - Gaelic language skills training and development delivered to staff particularly in relation to implementing the public authority’s Gaelic Language Plan
  4. Using Gaelic - Staff are encouraged to use Gaelic in their work
  5. Recruitment Gaelic - language skills are recognised and respected within the recruitment process throughout the public authority. Gaelic named as an essential and/ or desirable in job descriptions in order to deliver the Gaelic Language Plan and n accordance with the Bord na Gaidhlig recruitment advice. Bilingual or Gaelic only job adverts for all posts where Gaelic is an essential skill

Current Practice

  1. East Dunbartonshire Council conducted an internal Gaelic capacity suit for the previous Gaelic Language Plan (2020-23). We will conduct an internal language capacity audit for this interaction of the Gaelic Language Plan
  2. Our Gaelic Language Plan (2024- 29) is accessible on our hub
  3. East Dunbartonshire Council as part of the offer provided by people development support CPD to staff who require Gaelic as an essential as part of their roles
  4. East Dunbartonshire Council staff are encouraged where relevant and appropriate to use Gaelic in their work
  5. Where there is a requirement for the Gaelic language to form part of the job role and specification, this is done in accordance with Bòrd na Gàidhlig recruitment advice. No routine adverts have the Gaelic language as a skills requirement. We do not currently advertise bilingual or Gaelic only job adverts for posts where Gaelic is an essential skill

Actions Required

  1. We will conduct an internal language capacity audit following approval of this iteration of the Gaelic Language Plan
  2. We will review current provision and explore suitability and sustainability across the Council induction and learning opportunities.
  3. We will review the findings of the internal language capacity audit. We will develop baseline, and explore suitability and sustainability across the Council people development platforms
  4. We will continue to encourage staff where relevant and appropriate to use Gaelic in their work
  5. We will continue to comply with Bòrd na Gàidhlig recruitment advice as appropriate. Where there is a specific Gaelic speaking requirements or a post, a suitable Gaelic speaking representative will be included in the interview process. Where Gaelic is essential skill for a role, we will aim to publish bilingual job adverts and person specification

Target Date

  1. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  2. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  3. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  4. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  5. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan

Responsibility

  1. East Dunbartonshire People, Development Team, Council Communication and Engagement Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  2. East Dunbartonshire People Development Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  3. East Dunbartonshire People Development Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum
  4. East Dunbartonshire Human Resources Recruitment Team, East Dunbartonshire People Development Team, East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, Equalities Action Planning Forum.

Gaelic Lanaugage Corpus

Desired Outcome

  1. Gaelic Orthographic Conventions - The most recent Gaelic Orthographic Conventions will be followed in relation to all written materials produced by the authority
  2. Placenames - Gaelic place name and advice from Ainmean-Aite na h-Alba is sought and used

Current Practice

  1. East Dunbartonshire Council written materials are translated by a qualified third-party or EDC employee that adheres to SQA Orthographic Conventions
  2. East Dunbartonshire Council seeks advise from Ainmean-Aite na h-Alba as required

Actions Required

  1. We will review current provision and explore suitability and sustainability of engaging EDC staff. We will review current interpretation and translation guidance issued, to ensure that translation and interpretation of all requested and relevant written materials comply with Gaelic Orthographic Conventions
  2. We will continue to seek advice from Ainmean-Aite na H-alba as required

Target Date

  1. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan
  2. Plan Q3/4 (2023-24) and deliver Q1/2 (2024-25) and subsequent years of Plan

Responsibility

  1. East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, East Dunbartonshire Communication and Engagement Team, Equalities Action Planning Forum.
  2. East Dunbartonshire Council Education Services, East Dunbartonshire, Communication and Engagement
    Team, Equalities Action Planning Forum, Gaelic Community, East Dunbartonshire Communities, East Dunbartonshire Businesses.