Community organisations across Orkney are being encouraged to apply for funding to help support people facing financial hardship as a new round of the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund opens.
The Orkney Community Planning Partnership has announced that applications are now being accepted for the 2026 to 2027 programme.
A total of £213,000 has been allocated to Orkney by the Scottish Government’s Islands Team to support projects that provide direct assistance to individuals, families and communities affected by the continuing cost of living crisis.
The fund places a strong emphasis on tackling child poverty while helping organisations deliver practical support where it is needed most.
Most grants are expected to be worth less than £25,000, although larger awards may be considered in exceptional circumstances.
Last year, the fund helped more than 1,500 people across Orkney, including hundreds of children, through projects delivered by local charities and community organisations.
Support included community shopping cards for older residents, hot meals for young people, help with energy bills, fuel poverty assistance, school participation grants and Christmas payments for families experiencing hardship.
The programme also backed community hubs, mental health activities for young people and energy efficiency improvements for households struggling with heating costs.
Stephen Brown, Chief Officer for Orkney Health and Care and Chair of the Orkney Community Planning Partnership Cost of Living Task Force, said:
“A range of vital projects were delivered by local organisations through this fund in 2025/26.
“By working with these organisations, who already provide much needed support to our communities the partnership ensured the funds could be targeted and go to those most in need.
“The 2026/27 round will build on this success to further strengthen community resilience, tackle poverty, and ensure those most in need are supported with dignity.
“The Orkney Community Planning Partnership encourages all eligible organisations to consider how they can contribute to alleviating hardship in their communities and submit proposals for this year’s fund.
“Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those most affected by the cost of living crisis in Orkney.”
The latest funding round reflects the continuing pressure many island households face as communities work to respond to higher living costs and support those most at risk of financial hardship.
Organisations can apply for funding by submitting a proposal form, available by emailing community.planning@orkney.gov.uk
The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Friday 31 July 2026.
For queries, contact Daniel Aubrey at daniel.aubrey@orkney.gov.uk
