Chairwoman – Royal Burgh of Arbroath Community Council 

Fiona Doran, born in Glasgow, has deep roots in Arbroath, as part of the Cargill family with a legacy in the local fishing industry. From a young age, Fiona demonstrated a commitment to public service, becoming the youngest member of the children’s panel at just 20 years old, later chairing the panels and working as a detached youth worker in community education. She also served on the Community Council at this time, representing local interests at monthly local health authority meetings. Fiona was widowed at a young age. Her passion for helping young people led her to serve as a supported landlady in Arbroath, dedicated to assisting youth transitioning out of foster care by imparting essential life skills.

Fiona’s journey took her to Wales for seven years, where she continued her impactful community work as a project worker for the homeless with Clwyd Allan Housing Association, and working with the set-up of the UK’s first community care houses. Additionally, she volunteered as a Director and Presenter for the community radio station Shore FM, successfully securing funding to bring the project to life.

Upon returning to Arbroath, Fiona worked as an Enabler for Capabilities Scotland and even taught English in Turkey for a stint as part of a TEFL program. Following her medical retirement, she was part of a nationwide campaign run by The Sun newspaper, involving a consultation and reform of the Scottish judicious system in Scottish rape offences. Then went on to become part of the Community Council and after five years with the Community Council, she assumed the role of chairwoman in October 2022.

For the past nine years, Fiona has been involved with tenant participation with Hillcrest Housing, and is on the Board for Maintenance progressing many projects including the compliance with net-zero goals – future proofing properties. Her dedication to the community has also seen her volunteer with the NHS for 6 years, providing reiki to cancer patients at Arbroath Royal Infirmary.

Fiona recently completed an SQA Mental Health and Wellbeing Award with Reach Across, a third-sector organisation in Arbroath.

Fiona’s guiding belief is encapsulated in the phrase “It takes a village,” but she knows that in Arbroath, it truly takes a town. She is passionate about the power of community collaboration to achieve remarkable outcomes for the town and its residents.