About Orkney islands council
Orkney Islands Council: A Comprehensive Guide to the Local Government
Orkney Islands Council is a local government body that serves the Orkney archipelago in Scotland. The council's primary objective is to provide essential services and support to the residents of Orkney, including education, housing, transportation, waste management, and social care.
The council was established in 1975 under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. It comprises 21 elected members who represent seven wards across Orkney. The council's headquarters are located in Kirkwall, which is also the largest town on the island.
Orkney Islands Council has a diverse range of responsibilities that impact every aspect of life on the islands. One of its most significant roles is overseeing education provision for children and young people from nursery age through to secondary school. The council operates ten primary schools and three secondary schools across Orkney.
In addition to education provision, Orkney Islands Council also manages social care services for vulnerable adults and children living on the islands. This includes providing support for individuals with disabilities or mental health issues as well as those who require assistance with daily living tasks.
The council also plays an important role in managing transportation infrastructure across Orkney. This includes maintaining roads and bridges as well as operating ferry services between mainland Scotland and various islands within the archipelago.
Waste management is another key responsibility of Orkney Islands Council. The council operates several recycling centers throughout Orkney where residents can dispose of household waste responsibly.
Housing provision is another area where Orkney Islands Council plays a vital role. The council provides affordable housing options for individuals and families across all income levels through its Housing Options service.
Overall, it's clear that Orkey Island Council has a significant impact on life within this unique Scottish archipelago community. Whether you're a resident or visitor to these beautiful islands off Scotland's coast, the council's services and support are essential to ensuring a high quality of life for all.