We have:
• Discussed this issue with Christina McKelvie MSP
• Distributed copies of booklet Scotland’s Rangers (SCRA 2014), which explains what Rangers do, using examples of projects, to all Ranger Services with accompanying letter asking them to circulate to Councillors, Board members or Committee members, as appropriate to each service; and to other relevant bodies
• Convened the Ranger Development Partnership annually since 2009 to take a strategic overview of Rangers in Scotland, including issues relevant to this petition e.g. loss of posts; dilution of national identity; use of volunteer rangers; improving promotional activities;
• Convened a Ranger Manager Forum biannually to share good practice e.g. Ranger identity (badging), and address common issues
• Met the Chair of SNH in 2016 to seek continuing support for Ranger Services through grant aid and on-going promotion of what Rangers achieve, given SNH’s responsibility for advocacy of Rangers’ roles in natural heritage and outdoor access management
• Liaised regularly with nominated member of SNH staff to exchange information and address concerns
• Sent letters to Highland Council re the threat to disband their Ranger Service in 2016 and 2017, and circulated a press release
• Given guidance to our members on how to promote the services they deliver, and their achievements
• Continued to provide low cost, high quality training to Rangers and other Countryside professionals across Scotland in support of their employers’ commitment to staff development.