Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick met with the Chair of Orkney Charitable Trust, Lynne Spence, to talk about the charity’s work and how it supports children and young people in times of need.
Set up in 2014, the charity provides financial help through a range of grants, support schemes, and one-off payments to those under 25 living in the islands who find themselves in hardship.
Explaining the charity’s responsive, cash-first approach, Ms Spence said that it was vital that children and families received the support they need when they need it.
Commenting on the meeting, Ms 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.”
Emma Roddick MSP 