With an annual operating budget of around 70 million, HIE has to address the very specific challenges of developing a distinct area. Multiple deprivation is experienced as keenly in rural and remote areas, with exclusion often compounded by remoteness. Voluntary sector - the Social Economy Supporting people experiencing poverty or disadvantage is the largest single area of voluntary action. Scotland's voluntary organisations contribute about 500 million of their own income each year to the support of people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing poverty or disadvantage, in addition to the 3-400 million which central and local government give them to provide services to the public. But the voluntary sector's contribution extends beyond direct service provision.
Voluntary organisation is the main way in which a community speaks for itself and acts for itself.
Scottish Homes Scottish Homes has an annual budget of around 200 million and works with partners and communities to develop programmes integrating housing, transport, jobs, services and care provision with the physical and social infrastructure necessary to improve the economic and social condition of Scotland's disadvantaged communities. It is investing heavily in Social Inclusion Partnership areas and is expanding its activities to support a wider range of community-based regeneration initiatives. Colleges and universities The further and higher education sectors have a key role in equipping people with the skills they need to get jobs in the first place and making sure they have sustainable skills to help them stay in employment. Colleges and universities in Scotland are committed to dealing with issues of social justice through breaking down academic, cultural and practical barriers to widening access to further and higher education. Many businesses are actively engaged in working within a framework of social justice.