Oxfam are currently holding focus group meetings around Scotland with a variety of communities in order to establish what matters to people at a grassroots level. Andalus was pleased to host this meeting with Oxfam, the results of which will hopefully be a positive contribution to the overall index in Scotland. The project aims to look beyond economic measures of prosperity and construct a more holistic and broad definition of the term 'prosperity' itself. The information will then be used to help influence the allocation of resources aimed at improving people's quality of life.

After the initial introduction outlining the purpose of the focus group, the Andalus participants were asked to discuss the positive and negative aspects of various life stages. This challenging activity brought out a number of perspectives that mirrored the social background of those involved. As might be expected much of the discussion revolved around the dichotomy between traditional and modern values and culture. Education, respect for the elderly and the role of religion in society were other areas discussed.

The next task was to identify the most important issues relevant to those in the focus group. The areas were divided across a broad spectrum from what makes a good family, to what issues are important for health and security. The group were then invited to place stars next to the issues most important to them. Some key concerns were jobs and health services, financial security, health and fitness for elderly people, environmental conservation and education.

The data gathered will contribute towards the Index that will ultimately enable policy makers to make more informed decisions regarding real prosperity in Scotland that look beyond economic growth alone. In addition to this goal Oxfam have set out to change individual perceptions too, whereby: 'Oxfam's Humankind Index is about creating a context not where people sacrifice their relationships and environment to keep up with the Jones’ but where they celebrate and nurture their relationships with the Jones’s and the environment impacting on them!'

Finally, the Andalus participants were rewarded with a £15 voucher for volunteering their valuable time. Andalus would like to thank all those involved in organising and participating in this successful event.