Community / SIC to receive £300k from island cost crisis fund
SHETLAND Islands Council is in line to receive around £300,000 from a new Scottish Government fund designed to support islanders most impacted by the cost of living.
The £1.4 million Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund will target immediate support to those who are struggling, either through existing schemes or new support.
It has now been confirmed that in 2022/23 Shetland will receive roughly £300,000, with £67,000 of this reserved for capital spend.
Funding is being allocated directly to the six island local authorities to support the needs of their communities.
The fund was identified as part of the emergency budget review announced last month as the cost of living on islands is higher when compared to the mainland.
Rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Islands already experience higher costs of living, with some estimates around 20-65 per cent higher than the UK average, with higher fuel costs, a colder climate and the lack of consumer choice intensifying the impact of the cost crisis on islanders.
“This fund was developed to enable local authorities to take urgent action in helping mitigate the impacts of the cost of living crisis on households.
“I would like to thank everyone involved for their commitment in getting this fund rolled out as quickly as possible and I hope it can provide support to those who need it the most.”
Shetland Islands Council has been approached for comment.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.