Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Emma Roddick was in Orkney recently visiting various community organisations to see the work they do in the islands.

Amongst those visited were Hope Co Housing, Orkney Charitable Trust, and Employability Orkney.

Speaking about her meeting with Lynne Spence, Chair of Orkney Charitable Trust, Emma Roddick said:

“I was so grateful to Lynne for taking the time to sit down with me and talk me through how Orkney Charitable Trust came about and the support it provides to young folk and families in the islands.

“I really admire the charity’s values and cash-first approach. Too often, people come up against endless questions and interrogation when all they need is a bit of help to get back on their feet.  We have a long way to go in removing the stigma of poverty, but the ethics Orkney Charitable Trust takes forward in all of its work will help us get there.

“I loved hearing about all the different funds the team have built up over the years like Every Child Deserves a Christmas and Bairns Need Nappies that give families an extra bit of support when they need it.

“I left my meeting with Lynne feeling so inspired by her and her team’s passion and attitude to supporting folk who need it and tackling poverty in the isles. I look forward to keeping in touch and supporting the team in any way I can.”

Orkney Charitable Trust raises and distributes funds to help people under 25 who live in the Orkney Islands. ​Our funds are available to young people in times of  ill health, disability, hardship or disadvantage. – Find out more here Orkney Charitable Trust

At Employability Orkney, the MSP saw the incredible work the organisation does at their Restart facility. The charity supports those with barriers to gaining employment in the islands through a range of sustainable supported employment, training, and volunteering opportunities.

Praising the work of the team at Employability Orkney Emma Roddick said:

“Their second-hand shop is brilliant and I was so grateful to the staff and board members for showing me around the many treasures that can be found. I particularly loved the upcycled garden benches that had been made from old bed frames.

“The team clearly feel rewarded when they see those they advocate for thrive in the workplace, and I hope more and more employers start to realise that flexible approaches make going to work easier and more enjoyable for everyone.”