What’s buzzing in Shetland? From a massive community enterprise expansion set to transform local services, to a national award celebrating incredible energy innovation, and crucial health updates, there’s a lot happening! How are these developments shaping the future of the islands?
This week in Shetland sees significant strides across community development, energy innovation, and public health initiatives, reflecting a vibrant and progressive local landscape. From a major social enterprise expansion to a prestigious national award and the rollout of essential health programs, the islands are buzzing with positive advancements.
At the forefront of these developments is COPE, a leading social enterprise, which is nearing completion of its ambitious expansion project for the Home Co. business unit in Lerwick. This substantial near-£1 million investment is poised to dramatically enhance the capacity for crucial reuse and recycling services, addressing the ever-growing demand from the community.
The expanded facility is meticulously designed to provide dedicated workspaces, greatly improving operational efficiency. Support for this vital project includes a significant £266,000 in funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), underscoring regional commitment to sustainable growth. This strategic renovation will also introduce a new repair area, facilitating an increased volume of goods available for resale, alongside improved display areas to better showcase larger items.
Beyond operational enhancements, the expansion incorporates better insulation, directly contributing to COPE’s mission to reduce its carbon emissions and promote environmental stewardship. Steven Coutts, COPE chief executive, enthusiastically stated that this project promises to be “transformational” for all stakeholders, including participants, staff, volunteers, and the wider community who actively engage by donating and purchasing goods. This initiative strengthens Shetland community development and sustainable enterprise.
Simultaneously, the Shetland Heat and Power (SHEAP) community energy network has garnered national recognition, with Neville Martin receiving a high commendation in the heat networks champion category at the prestigious UK District Energy Association Awards in London. This honor celebrates a lifetime of dedication and pioneering efforts in the field of energy efficiency and community-focused infrastructure.
The award is widely regarded as a lifetime achievement, specifically acknowledging Martin’s profound contribution to establishing a sustainable, community-centric energy network that continues to provide substantial benefits for Shetland. Under his guidance, SHEAP secured multiple accolades, including the national engineering council environmental award and a top European “green” rating for its exceptional energy efficiency. The network consistently saves the local community millions annually compared to electric heating, while remarkably curbing carbon emissions equivalent to approximately 2,500 cars each year, highlighting its role in renewable energy solutions.
In public health news, the annual flu vaccination program is commencing across Shetland, with initial clinics scheduled to begin in September. The first cohorts invited for vaccination include individuals aged 65-74 and those with existing underlying health conditions, ensuring timely protection for vulnerable populations. Invitations, delivered via letters, emails, and text messages, are now being dispatched to registered patients across several health centers including Lerwick, Brae, Levenwick, Scalloway, Bixter, and Walls. This widespread rollout is a crucial public health initiative.
The program extends comprehensive coverage to school pupils, who will receive their flu vaccinations directly at school. Appointments for pre-school children are conveniently arranged at their local GP practices, with a new pilot program also offering vaccinations at select nurseries. Furthermore, all pregnant women are encouraged to receive the flu vaccine through maternity services, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding maternal and infant health.
Beyond the primary groups, vaccination is also strongly recommended for a broader array of individuals critical to community well-being and health stability. This includes all unpaid carers, individuals residing with someone who is immunosuppressed, poultry workers and bird handlers, those experiencing homelessness or substance use, and all NHS workers and frontline social care workers. These recommendations highlight a holistic approach to preventative healthcare across the islands.
