Common Ground Forum

A more collaborative approach to deer management.

Background

For the past few years, Centre for Good Relations (CfGR) has been helping to facilitate the Common Ground Forum on Sustainable Upland Deer Management in Scotland. The core aim of this process has been building a more collaborative approach to deer management for the benefit of people, nature and the climate.  Beginning in 2021, we facilitated initial cross-sector conversations through the Finding the Common Ground project, and developed the Common Ground Accord through conversation with participants, establishing an agreed standard for respectful behaviour and engagement to ensure effective collaborative working. A Steering Group with representatives from across the sector was also formed to inform and guide the process, and positive progress with the initial project led to the launch of the Common Ground Forum (CGF) in 2023. 

To date, CfGR have facilitated and supported a range of CGF conversations, including discussions with Scottish Government, and events. There have been Four Stalkers’ Events across the country, a broader cross-sector CGF Event, and a Foresters’ Event.

With a view to realising our core aims of building resilience in relationships, and empowering everyday practitioners of civic mediation methodology, CfGR has been offering capacity building courses to help CGF participants better understand and navigate conflict.  

Current Focus

Alongside continuing to support the wider work of the Common Ground Forum, CfGR are currently looking to hear from more people involved in deer management, including also in the Lowlands, about the issues and challenges that are being experienced. This is with the intention of outlining a route map for the future of the sector. 

Who’s Involved

This process is supported by a Steering Group, including members from:

• Association of Deer Management Groups 
• Cairngorms National Park Authority
• Forestry and Land Scotland
• John Muir Trust
• NatureScot

• Plantlife Scotland
• Scottish Gamekeepers Association
• Scottish Venison
• Trees for Life

Many stakeholders from different interests across the sector have participated in CGF discussions and events, and have signed up to the Common Ground Accord.

If you have any questions about the process and our role, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our Senior Practitioner, Abdul: Abdul@centreforgoodrelations.com.