Delivered through the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund the financial support hopes to help manage some of the unique cost of living challenges faced by people living on Scotland’s islands.
The funding announcement comes as estimates by Shetland Islands Council suggest that the cost of living in come island areas are 20 to 65% higher than the UK average. Islanders face a colder climate, higher fuel and energy costs as well as reduced consumer choice.
Fund criteria has also been extended to potentially include struggling local businesses concerned whether they’ll weather the current financial economic storm.
How will the funding be distributed?
The six island local authorities will distribute the funding, focusing on where they believe will be most effective.
Announcing the funding, Local Government Empowerment Minister Joe FitzPatrick said: “No one in Scotland has been shielded from the cost of living crisis – which has been exacerbated by the inflationary crisis caused by UK Government actions. But islanders often face even greater challenges, due to the unique circumstances of island life.
“Island council leaders have seen the cost of living crisis become more entrenched in their communities. As Minister responsible for local government, I am determined to step up and help those who need it the most even when the UK Government is turning its back on people.
“We have listened to island local authorities and are providing this £1 million of additional funding to help them target support where they have the most concerns.”
“Some areas facing costs up to 65% higher than on the mainland”
The Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund was set up in December 2022, and will now provide £2.4 million in support to island local authorities, including Argyll and Bute, Highland, Na h-Eileanan Siar, North Ayrshire, Orkney and Shetland.
Speaking of the additional cash boost, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, COSLA’s Community Wellbeing Spokesperson added: “The cost-of-living crisis continues to have a disproportionate impact on our island communities, with some areas facing costs up to 65% higher than on the mainland.
“This funding will allow for the continuation of past measures made possible by the Fund such as electricity vouchers, provision of meals and supporting local food initiatives.
“We appreciate the joint work which has taken place between Scottish and Local Government to ensure this funding is available to our most vulnerable islands communities before the winter.”
The Scottish Government has also launched a public consultation to review the current priorities of the National Islands Plan. Published five years ago the Plan provides a framework to action meaningful change within island communities across Scotland.
The consultation will give islanders the opportunity to share their thoughts on how to improve their local area.
Personal debt levels amongst highest in Scotland
Earlier this year Carrington Dean revealed that the Shetland Islands has the highest level of personal debts in Scotland – currently standing at £24,180.
The Shetland Islands were followed by Na h-Eileanan Siar (Outer Hebrides) at £19,001.37 – almost £3,000 higher than the national average of £16,133.
As costs continue to rise, especially for islanders, Carrington Dean is encouraging people to seek professional support for their debt.
Scots can access a range of debt help solutions, including the Debt Arrangement Scheme and Protected Trust Deeds.
Carrington Dean is Scotland’s debt specialist and has helped more than 45,000 people manage their debt. If you’re worried about debt, talk to an expert advisor today to discover what options are available to you.
