Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway (TSDG) has revealed a new social enterprise team to help enhance the contribution of the sector to the economic development of the region.
The team will work to embed Community Wealth Building principles, strengthen the social enterprise ecosystem, and ensure the voice of local organisations is represented in decision-making processes.
Their remit is to support collaboration and the building of a sustainable, fair, and resilient economy for Dumfries and Galloway, recognising the value that social enterprises bring to investment, planning, and long-term growth.
Owen Fielding, the team’s Lead for Local Economies and Enterprise, said: “Social enterprises make a significant contribution to local economies, not only through job creation but also through reinvestment in communities.
“By establishing this dedicated team, TSDG is ensuring that Dumfries and Galloway’s social enterprises are supported to thrive and to play a full role in shaping the region’s economic future.”
Owen brings extensive experience from Scotland and the United States, with a background spanning the financial sector, health and social care, consultancy, and leadership roles.
His career has been focused on delivering social impact as a consultant, company director, trustee, and employee. He will provide strategic leadership to ensure Social Enterprise is recognised as a key driver of inclusive economic development.
Carol Brotherston is the new Social Enterprise Development Officer and has a diverse career across the music industry, events management, hospitality, and business development.
She combines lived experience with a commitment to supporting others and will champion the Social Enterprise model, offering practical guidance to entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and innovation.
Anna Fell is the Social Enterprise Co-ordinator and has a strong track record in the third sector and will lead on delivery of the Dumfries and Galloway Social Enterprise Grant Programme, funded by the UK Government.
Her role includes managing grants, monitoring impact, and promoting the achievements of the programme, ensuring that investment is effectively targeted and delivers measurable benefits for communities.
Together, the three will strengthen Dumfries and Galloway’s social enterprise sector by combining expertise, advocacy, and practical support. Their work will contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable local economy, with social enterprises recognised as vital partners in achieving long-term prosperity for the region.
To contact the team, email sedg@tsdg.org.uk or call 0300 303 8558.
Main picture: Carol Brotherston and Owen Fielding, who with Anna Fell, make up the new team dedicated to local economies and enterprise at Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway.