Member
Borders Community Action hosted a vibrant celebration of Scottish Borders village halls on 18th March 2026, bringing together volunteers, trustees and community leaders from across the region. Held at St Boswells Village Hall from 1pm – 4:30pm, the gathering formed a key part of Village Halls Week and welcomed 70+ attendees.
The afternoon began with a sandwich lunch and informal networking, giving hall representatives the chance to reconnect and make new links. A warm welcome followed, recognising the vital contribution village halls make to health, wellbeing and community life throughout the Borders.
Speakers from both local and national organisations shared inspiring examples, including:
The interactive Marketplace proved hugely valuable, offering space for exhibitors and delegates to exchange ideas, discover services and build new partnerships. Facilitated networking sessions generated further practical connections, with halls sharing challenges, successes and innovative solutions.
Attendees also had a choice of focused workshops covering:
Each session provided tools and practical advice that hall committees can take back and apply straight away.
Following the success of the event, Borders Community Action is preparing updates to the Marketplace, inviting halls to share details of trusted suppliers and useful contacts. This collaborative resource will help foster best practice and shared learning across the region.
Work is also underway to explore how communities can engage younger people in running and shaping village halls, ensuring these important local spaces thrive for generations to come.
Delegates and those unable to attend are encouraged to make use of the following:
Anyone who would like copies of the event presentation slides can contact the team at [email protected].
