Mike Cooper who  was instrumental in setting up Orkney Care & Repair in 1988 is retiring after a career of over 30 years.  Orkney  Care & Repair was one of the original 8 pilot schemes in Scotland. His role will be taken up by Fraser Devine.

Mike said:

‘In the early days we saw some very extreme cases of hardship, disrepair and some of the worst rural housing conditions in Scotland. I am exceptionally proud to see how assistance from Care and Repair has had such positive effect in our community. It has been a real honour to be a part of and I know Fraser will continue the good work.’

Mike Cooper, John Rodwell and Fraser Devine

Fraser Devine brings with him a wealth of experience leading teams, services and working with a wide variety of people and charities in Orkney and beyond.

Fraser said:

‘I am truly delighted to be back working in the Third Sector, at Orkney Care and Repair. The services Care and Repair provide can have a real positive impact on the lives of our clients – and having a job where you can say that is just wonderful!

“There is a very experienced and well respected team at Care & Repair and I am looking forward to working with them and our wider partners to assist and help homeowners repair, improve or adapt their homes so that they can continue to live in comfort and safety in their own community.”

The Care & Repair service is delivered by Orkney Housing Association, under contract from OIC.

John Rodwell, Chair of Orkney Housing Association and Convener of Orkney C&R Trust said:

 ‘It has been a privilege to work with Mike over many years and observe some of the fantastic impacts the service has had. We wish to congratulate Mike for all his hard work and dedication ensuring that the most in need had somewhere to go for help over the past 30 years. We wish him a very long and happy retirement. I am also thrilled to be welcoming Fraser to the team and look forward to seeing him settle into the role’

Orkney Care & Repair offer the Council’s “Scheme of assistance” to private homeowners and tenants with advice, small repairs and adaptations to their property. Fraser and the team can be contacted at Orkney Housing Association offices or by telephoning 873369.