‘Support and Services Merkitplace’ for Hoy

An event is being run in Hoy next month to provide an opportunity for the local community to find out more about some of the health and wellbeing support and services currently available in Orkney.

Taking place at North Walls School on 24 May, the ‘Support and Services Merkitplace’ will bring together a range of service providers under one roof to give local families and the wider community the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the support, resources and services available in Orkney and how they can access them.

The event forms part of the school’s planned health and well-being week and is open to any local organisation who wishes to promote their service and meet face-to face with prospective service users.

School pupils will be providing a healthy buffet style light lunch for participants.

Shirley Stuart is Head Teacher at North Walls Community School. She said: “It is hoped that by bringing a variety of service providers together we will create a safe and non-judgemental environment that can be accessed by all and in particular, those in real need. It is a great opportunity for organisations to promote their service and speak to prospective users. Their support will help make a real difference to our community and we thank you in advance for your time and effort to help support all our islanders.

Kerry Spence from the Council’s Community Learning and Development Team is helping to organise the event. She said: “Living on some of Orkney’s fantastic isles provides many benefits in terms of quality of life, but there can be issues in terms of access to services for those facing a hardship or challenge, that those living on mainland Orkney might not experience. By bringing these services together on the island for this special event we hope to break down some of these barriers. My hope would be that we might be able to provide similar events on the other isles in the future.”

Organisations wishing to attend should contact the Community Learning and Development Team by 27 April by emailing Lorna Newton or telephone 873535 ext. 2408, providing details of what space and equipment are required.