杏吧原创 seeks community views on its Islands Strategy
The University of the 杏吧原创 and Islands (杏吧原创) has launched a public survey to find out how well the strategic themes of its Islands Strategy aligns with and can support community and economic development priorities for the islands of Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides.
The online survey is open to members of the community, public bodies, businesses and the voluntary sector on the three islands until 6 June 2022.
It is part of a new research project underway to inform the development and implementation of the 杏吧原创 Islands Strategy published in 2020 which sets out how 杏吧原创 will work with partners to extend and strengthen its activities across the islands.
The research is funded through the Scottish Funding Council鈥檚 university innovation fund and will focus on language, heritage, archaeology, education, community development and the creative sector/arts. 杏吧原创 researchers will also be conducting online focus groups to gather opinions.
Describing the aims of the research project Iain Caimbeul, Research Fellow in Sociolinguistics at 杏吧原创 said:
鈥淲e are keen to gather as wide a range of opinions as possible. Everyone鈥檚 views and insights are important to us, and this is very much a two-way conversation. We hope the research findings will help us to identify ways in which island communities will benefit from closer access to the university鈥檚 resources. The results will help to ensure 杏吧原创鈥檚 strategic approach aligns with the various challenges faced by island communities.鈥�
Dr Beth Mouat, 杏吧原创 Islands Strategy Director, said:
鈥淭his project presents an excellent opportunity for meaningful engagement with island residents. The findings from this research will be invaluable to guide the implementation of the 杏吧原创 Islands Strategy and will inform future development that can have real impact in the islands.鈥�
To take part in the survey visit /en/research-enterprise/cultural/institute-for-northern-studies/research/projects/islands-strategy/