In May 2026, at Tagsa we will launch our new strategy for 2026-2029, setting out an ambitious plan to expand our services, invest in staff, and deepen our roots in the Uist community. The strategy, developed following extensive consultation with staff, clients, Board members, community members, and partner agencies, builds on the organisation’s achievements over the past three years and responds directly to the challenges facing Uist’s population.

Responding to Community Need

Uist faces a unique combination of pressures. Nearly 29% of residents are aged 65 or older, well above the Scottish average, and the number of people aged 75 and over is expected to grow by 25% by 2028. Geographic isolation, unreliable transport links, and distance from specialist services create significant health inequalities. Social isolation, fuel poverty, and limited access to mental health support affect people of all ages.

Dr Peter Keiller, Chair of Tagsa Uibhist’s Board of Directors, said:

‘Our goal is to provide safe, welcoming services that improve health and wellbeing for people of all ages in Uist. Over the next three years, we will streamline our work, build on our strengths, and stay connected and responsive to the community we serve. Our staff are our greatest asset, and the Board takes its duty of care to them very seriously’.

Strategic Priorities for 2026–2029

The new strategy focuses on five core service areas:

• Care at Home: Flexible, person-centred support enabling people to live independently and with dignity in their own homes.
• Adult Support, Mental Health and Wellbeing: Visiting support, dementia care, psychotherapeutic services, and facilitated forums for carers and those facing mental health challenges.
• Community Transport:  A lifeline service connecting people to healthcare, social activities, and essential appointments, now including three zero-emission electric vehicles.
• Community Gardens:  A therapeutic, inclusive space promoting physical and mental health, social connection, and access to fresh, locally grown food.

Investing in People and Culture

Recognising that staff wellbeing is the foundation of quality care, the strategy commits to a positive, inclusive workplace culture underpinned by Tagsa’s core values: welcoming, trustworthy, caring, community-driven, collaborative, and committed.

Key commitments include:

• Continued accreditation as an Investors in People employer,
• Real Living Wage for all staff,
• Comprehensive training and professional development,
• A values-based approach to recruitment,
• A new voluntary recognition agreement with UNISON, supporting staff voice and representation.

Commitment to Gaelic

As part of its commitment to Uist’s culture and heritage, Tagsa Uibhist is participating in the Neart sa Ghàidhlig initiative, promoting the use of Gaelic in the workplace and in services. For many clients, particularly older people and those living with dementia, Gaelic is the language of home and memory. Supporting Gaelic strengthens community bonds and signals respect for the people Tagsa serves.

Strengthening Governance

The strategy also outlines plans to develop the Board of Directors, ensuring it remains diverse, skilled, and representative of the Uist community. This includes active recruitment of new Directors, ongoing training, and distributed governance responsibilities to build resilience and responsiveness.

Looking Ahead

Tagsa’s CEO Chris MacLullich commented:

‘This strategy comes from a great deal of reflection on what we are doing well to meet community needs and focusing on sustaining the amazing work our teams do every day. It also comes from looking at challenges and areas for improvement. Tagsa will continue to respond dynamically to changing community needs and will work in partnership with others to fulfil our mission of supporting better health and wellbeing here in Uist. We have an incredible dedicated team, and we want to offer fulfilling and rewarding careers for all of our staff’

The full strategy document will be on the website soon.