Sense of Place Tour 4

Ecohome

Having been in the Summer Isles (though actually also picking up on what we've seen and heard as we travelled) for a short while, we're noticing people seem more connected to the place, to their environment. The books in the bookshop we thought were aimed at tourists but apparently books on nature, philosophy and local history are more likely to be bought by locals. There are strong community groups, campaigning, lift sharing, activities, people taking responsibility.

As kayakers using the beaches we've helped with a beach clean, locals coming together to protect their environment. We've met people who have settled here from other areas not just for the views, or connections with nature, but the sense of community, the sense of warmth and safety and though many have 'downsized' they say the quality rather than quantity of life is better.

We're also noticing the flexibility, seeing the same person doing a number of jobs in order to be sufficient, the person who spends time as warden of a hostel during the summer and coordinating a footpath scheme in the winter. The person who writes software from a croft  with a view of the bay, while looking after the sheep too. People seem to have a greater sense of themselves, a confidence in their choices and less dependence on big brands, TV, having more. A community influenced by and for its members rather than external pressures. And this isn't painting a 'rosy' glow. In winter it's hard, longer periods of darkness, roads blocked, bad weather but still people do things and while some move away some communities are stronger with 'incomers' contributing rather than trying to change things to suit themselves.