Scottish Rural Communities Policy Review: Orkney case study
Six place-based case studies have been produced as part of Stage 3 of the Scottish Rural Communities Policy Review. This is the Orkney case study. The others are East Borders, East Moray, Lochalsh and South Skye, Harris and Scalpay, and West Lothian.
About Orkney
Orkney is an island archipelago located off the north coast of the Scottish mainland. Its main industries include agriculture and tourism, with a growing renewables sector taking advantage of its plentiful wind and tidal resources. Orkney is one of the few areas in the Highlands and Islands experiencing population growth. Around three quarters of residents live on the Orkney Mainland, with the rest spread across nine smaller islands.
Community Development Trusts are very active in Orkney and have served as one of the key anchors of community development since the establishment of the Westray Development Trust in 1998. The size and capacity of trusts can vary significantly with wide variations in their ability to financially sustain themselves. There is particular reliance on the income from renewable energy generation, the community ownership of which has benefitted from Community Led Local Development funding. This case study focuses on the interaction between Community Development Trusts and Community Led Local Development in Orkney.
Community Led Local Development in Orkney
Community Led Local Development in Orkney is delivered through the Local Action Group and an officer acting as the Community Led Local Development Coordinator based within Orkney Islands Council. This officer provides wider support and coordinates Community Led Local Development alongside other funding streams. Community Led Local Development funding has been used for a wide array of themes in Orkney, including supporting mental health, arts, culture and sport, youth engagement and education.
Most Community Development Trusts in Orkney have a Community Development Officer who supports activities locally. These officers have a specific network, supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, which has enabled more collaborative working and strategic planning. A conference bringing together Community Development Officers from Orkney and Shetland to share learning was supported by Community Led Local Development funding.
Contact
Email: socialresearch@gov.scot