Latest News

New national legislation around ‘burial rights’ is due to come into effect from next week – although it is not expected to have any significant impact in Orkney 

This week, Orkney Islands Council’s Museum Service organised a conservation and collection care training programme, funded by their Esmée Fairbairn Foundation grant, for heritage centres and organisations across the isles.

The Orkney Islands Area Licensing Board has received two applications for occasional licences from Gary Foubister for Sandwick Community Hall. 

Digital ferry vouchers for eligible Orkney residents holding a valid National Entitlement Card will be available from 15 March. The digital vouchers can be used on external ferry services (NorthLink and Pentland Ferries)  for travel from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.

Registration for Orkney's now well established, Parasport Festival, which returns on Friday 27th February, is open.

Free training aimed at parents with neurodiverse children - those awaiting or wanting to pursue a diagnosis - as well as for volunteers and professionals who support neurodiverse children and young people in non-educational settings, is being made freely available at the end of March.

A summary of road delays and closures due to road and building/utility works and events for the week starting Monday 23/02/2026.

Adult Support and Protection Day take place on the 20^th of February each year, and the Orkney Health and Social Care Partnership is urging everyone to report any concerns to ensure those in need are able to access support.

As part of CyberScotland Week 2026, staff from Orkney Islands Council’s Digital Connectivity, Trading Standards and The Learning Link team- joined by volunteers from AbilityNet - will be travelling around the Isles to deliver a series of free digital safety and scam awareness drop-ins.

Orkney Islands Council has developed a new marine plan designed to sustainably manage the seas around the islands whilst protecting the unique way of life and marine environment for future generations.