Almost 300 carers and professionals in the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland have been trained to communicate important messages to parents and children that will help prevent sexual abuse.

They have been trained as part of the Inter Islands Talk PANTS! campaign, which was launched almost a year ago by the NSPCC and the islands’ protection committees.

The NSPCC’s Talk PANTS! resources give parents, carers and professionals advice on how to have simple, age-appropriate conversations with children about sexual abuse. With the help of a colourful animated character, a friendly dinosaur called Pantosaurus, it helps children understand that their body belongs to them and to recognise when something is not okay, and how to tell someone if they are upset or worried.

An update on community events on Hoy on Saturday 17 September when Sir Chris Hoy will visit the island and formally open the newly redeveloped Scapa Flow Museum.

A Stronsay Junior High School pupil has had a “divine” experience as St Magnus Cathedral’s first ever work placement student.

Although having no previous knowledge of the cathedral or direct interest in history, S4 student Lilly says she came away with a new-found respect for the building and its story.

The Council’s waste team has been working hard to minimise disruption to domestic and trade waste customers as a result of the next planned industrial action on 7-10 September.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what has been put in place if there’s no agreement on the national pay deal -

The Council can confirm there will be significant school and nursery closures throughout Orkney if the planned national strike action over pay goes ahead on three days next week – 6, 7 and 8 September.

School catering staff, cleaners, caretakers, teaching assistants and early years practitioners are involved in the national industrial action.

The Education Service has reviewed in detail staff members expected to be on strike and the this would have impact on health, safety and support provisions for every nursery and school.