Council Delivery Plan

Annual Performance Report 2021 to 2022

IMAGE: The cover identifies the publisher as Orkney Islands Council and gives the title “Council Delivery Plan” and “Annual Performance Report 2021 to 2022”.

Contents

• Introduction
• Where the money comes from
• And how the money’s spent
• Progress against the targets in the Council Plan
• 1. Connected Communities
     • Priority – Complete the ongoing review of the provision of all of Orkney’s ferry services
     • Priority – Review timetables to integrate public transport wherever possible
     • Priority – Continue to invest in improvements to the transport infrastructure and improve its reliability, for example, by exploring further solutions for the barriers
     • Priority – Improve cycle and walking paths across Orkney
     • Priority – Explore improvements arising from the ‘Your Kirkwall’ engagement
     • Priority – Continue to lobby for superfast broadband
     • Priority – Working with the Scottish Government, explore and plan for the replacement of Orkney’s internal ferry fleet
• 2. Caring Communities
     • Priority – Ensure mental health services continue to meet local need for people of all ages
     • Priority – Review the services provided for looked after children
     • Priority – Address workforce development to make sure we have the right people in the right place at the right time
     • Priority – We will work with others to respond to demographic change in redesigning health and social care services to provide the best care we can for those who need it in the appropriate place
     • Priority – We will explore how care and/or support can be provided at home, work, or in education while making the best use of resources
• 3. Thriving Communities
     • Priority – Review Orkney’s learning landscape
     • Priority – Work with partners to develop strategies for improving housing conditions and reducing fuel poverty
     • Priority – Continue to influence the Islands Bill and ensure that it meets the needs of our community
     • Priority – Explore how communities can be further empowered to take decisions on services throughout Orkney
     • Priority – Work with partners to explore options for shared public service delivery through the review of local governance
• 4. Enterprising Communities
     • Priority – Continue to develop strategic projects, particularly to capitalise on the renewable sector
     • Priority – Explore ways to reduce the volume, and cost of handling, the county’s waste
     • Priority – Work with partners to develop and manage high-volume tourism and associated infrastructure
     • Priority – Explore options for revenue generation via the tourism sector to support associated infrastructure
     • Priority – Progress the Islands Deal to deliver innovative, enterprising and transformational projects
• 5. Quality of Life
     • Priority – To promote good practice and social responsibility in areas such as driving, parking, waste disposal and dog walking
     • Priority – To protect Orkney’s landscape and wildlife heritage
     • Priority – To protect and promote Orkney’s unique culture and community events
     • Priority – To eliminate single use/disposable plastic items within the Council, where possible, and support others to do likewise
     • Priority – Work with partners to provide opportunities to make Orkney an attractive location for young people to live, work and study
• 6. Best Value Action Plan

Introduction

Welcome to Orkney Islands Council’s Annual Performance Report for 2021 to 2022.

The report aims to present a balanced picture of the Council’s performance over the last year against the targets we set ourselves in our Council Plan 2018 to 2023.

The report covers the year ending 31 March 2022. During this period the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on many services provided by the Council, and this is highlighted in the updates for several Council Plan actions.

In previous Annual Performance Reports we have included our performance against Local Government Benchmarking Framework Indicators which bring together a wide range of information about how all Scottish Councils perform in delivering services to local communities. However, since 2018 to 2019 we decided to focus on reporting our progress against the targets in the Council Plan, making clear what outcomes we are working to achieve, and the date by which we aim to achieve them. This has allowed us to publish this information sooner, which we hope will result in a more up-to-date and relevant report.

The Local Government Benchmarking Framework Indicators remain important though, and we will follow up this report with a supplementary performance report containing this information early in 2023. This will provide further evidence on how our activities are having a positive impact on the Orkney community and allow readers to compare how well we are doing against previous years’ performance, the Scottish average, and similar local authorities.

We hope that you find the report interesting. If you would like more detailed performance information, please visit the Performance Section of the Council’s website at:

www.orkney.gov.uk/Service-Directory/Performance/performance.htm

If you would like to make a comment on the report, please contact the Improvement and Performance Team by writing to Orkney Islands Council, School Place, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1NY; by calling 01856 873535; or by emailing improvement.support@orkney.gov.uk

If you would like this publication in another language or in any other format, please contact us using the details above.

Where the money comes from

In 2021/22 our budget was £91.206 million, which was £4.741 million more than our 2020/21 budget of £86.465 million.

For every £1 that we received to spend on Council services in 2021/22, around 11p came from your annual council tax charge, with 81p coming from the Scottish Government, and 8p from our reserve funds.

And how the money’s spent

For every £1 that we spent on Council services in 2021/22, around 39p was spent on education, 5p on leisure and cultural services, 24p on social work and social care services, 14p on roads and transport, 4p on environmental services, 3p on planning and economic development, and 11p on other services.

Progress against the targets in the Council Plan

Outlined below is our progress against the targets set out in the Council Plan 2018 to 2023 which fall under our five strategic priorities – Connected Communities, Caring Communities, Thriving Communities, Enterprising Communities, and Quality of Life.

The reporting period is the year up to 31 March 2022. However, where appropriate, some updates reflect more recent developments to give the most up-to-date picture.

Along with each update, to give a clear indication of how well we are doing, we have assessed each of our 81 priority actions as either:

• BLUE = Completed.
• RED = Overdue/Significant underperformance with a medium to high risk of failure to meet the target.
• AMBER = Minor underperformance, with a low risk of failure to meet the target.
• GREEN = On target.

Progress Summary for 2021/22

IMAGE: A pie chart titled “Progress Summary for 2021/22” shows 39 completed actions, 28 on target, 4 with minor underperformance, and 10 overdue or showing significant underperformance.

1. CONNECTED COMMUNITIES

Our target outcome: Orkney’s communities enjoy modern and well-integrated transport services and the best national standards of digital connectivity, accessible and affordable to all.

Priority – Complete the ongoing review of the provision of all of Orkney’s ferry services

Action 1.1

Progress negotiation in relation to the transfer of responsibility for inter-island ferry services to Scottish Government – Target date: 30 April 2022.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Transfer of responsibility at no net detriment to the Council.

Progress Update

Dialogue between Transport Scotland, Scottish Government Ministers and Orkney Islands Council Members / Officers is ongoing. This has been reviewed in the context of the Scottish Government budget decisions in February 2020 and at present the Scottish Government appears to be going back on its commitment to seek a resolution to this matter. An open letter from Orkney Ferries was sent in an attempt to reinvigorate discussions and to seek clarity of inter-isles ferry services in Orkney compared to those services in other areas of Scotland.

Discussions on alternative funding measures are taking place to determine how we move forward. A report will be written to clarify where ferries will sit in the future. The Scottish Government and Transport Scotland have both made it clear that there is no funding unless we can do things in a different way. We need to ensure that any actions on the provision of Orkney ferry services in the future are within the Council’s gift to deliver.

Status: AMBER.

Priority – Review timetables to integrate public transport wherever possible

Action 1.2

Continue to fund core provision of public bus services across Mainland Orkney, and, subject to budget provision, improve connections between services e.g. bus to air/ferry connections and ferry to ferry connections – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• More integrated and better-connected communities.
• Improved access to services and business/tourism opportunities through better transport integration.

Progress Update

Improved integration was part of the outline business case and bus contract work which resulted in a new service specification which was introduced in August 2021. New contracts are in now place, new buses have arrived, and we are continuing to monitor connections.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Continue to invest in improvements to the transport infrastructure and improve its reliability, for example, by exploring further solutions for the barriers

Action 1.3

Retain and where possible enhance public road infrastructure and coastal flood protection of public road infrastructure – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Retention of existing levels of accessibility to Orkney’s communities.

Progress Update

Future project opportunities will be highlighted in the Council's Capital Project Appraisal process for future consideration of funding. A Members' Seminar is planned for 2022 to progress establishment of the 2024 to 2029 Capital Programme. Work is to commence on a Shoreline Management Plan which will inform future policy regarding flood risk.

Status: GREEN.

Action 1.4

Refresh and deliver the Council’s Airfield’s Strategy and Investment Plan – Target date: 31 December 2022.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Fit for purpose Airfields in accordance with the OIC Airfields Safety Management System.

Progress Update

The programme of runway resurfacing and the first phase of building replacement / upgrading has been completed. The Strategy and Investment Plan regarding remaining Airfield Terminal refurbishment / replacements and a long-term capital asset replacement programme was reported to Council in June 2019. Water rescue equipment has been delivered.

Following an audit by the Civil Aviation Authority the need to complete the Terminal Programme has been highlighted and this will need to be progressed through the Capital Project Appraisal (CPA) process. Stage 1 CPA for the remaining waiting rooms was presented to the Development and Infrastructure Committee in February 2022. The Committee recommended that a Stage 2 Capital Project Appraisal in respect of proposed new terminal buildings at Westray, Stronsay, Papa Westray and Eday, be submitted to the Policy and Resources Committee. There is a piece of work to create a Capital Maintenance Programme.

Status: GREEN.

Action 1.5

Contribute to the delivery of the Orkney Electric Vehicle Energy Strategy – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased electric vehicle infrastructure and number of electric vehicles in Orkney, whilst reducing cost to the Council.

Progress Update

Electric Vehicle infrastructure is currently progressing with funded support from Scottish Government and the Low Carbon Travel and Transport Challenge Fund. Charging for use was introduced in April 2019. Packets of funding continue to be provided from the Scottish Government and are allocated to further Electric Vehicle Infrastructure projects as and when this funding becomes available.

However, the income that has been achieved does not address the full cost of operation which will continue to be a challenge. Charges were not increased in 2021/22. The Council's Roads team is engaging with Orkney Renewable Energy Forum to seek an effective charging mechanism.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – Improve cycle and walking paths across Orkney

Action 1.6

Implement the Orkney Outdoor Access Strategy Action Plan and develop Active Travel Programme activity including sourcing external funding for improvements to core paths and (where affordable) other path and cycle networks – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To retain and, where affordable, enhance existing core paths.
• Where affordable, to establish new path and cycle links.
• To establish Orkney as a recognised high-quality destination for walking and cycling and support healthier living/active travel objectives.

Progress Update

The Core Path Plan was recommended for approval by the Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2018. The Sustainable Transport Project Development Plan was presented to the Development and Infrastructure Committee in June 2018 with an update provided in April 2019. A list of projects has been approved as the basis for a three-year programme for potential applications to the Community Links Programme.

Works on the Arcadia Park project in Kirkwall are complete. Various projects on the Mull Head access and interpretation project including a tour guide 'app' have been developed. The planning application for the open space and play area at Papdale East was approved by the Planning Committee on 7 July 2021. Construction works commenced in January 2022 and are due to be completed in May 2022.

The Carness Path and Parkland Project is being progressed through the Capital Project Appraisal process. A post of Sustrans Embedded Project Officer has been established for a temporary period of 3 years to develop active travel projects. The Council agreed in December 2021 to allocate £0.5M towards core paths and cycle links.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – Explore improvements arising from the ‘Your Kirkwall’ engagement

Action 1.7

Revised Kirkwall Urban Design Framework, incorporating the Your Kirkwall Action Plan – Target date: 30 August 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Improvements to Kirkwall.
• Council, young people and partners better informed.
• Young people connected to decision-making processes.

Progress Update

The Kirkwall Urban Design Framework was approved by the Council in October 2018 and includes an action plan of projects covering the next 10 years.

In terms of the key actions, work is progressing on the preparation of a Surface Water Management Plan which will identify a suite of projects to resolve surface water flooding in Kirkwall which is currently constraining development in the west of the town. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Continue to lobby for superfast broadband

Action 1.8a

Lobby for Superfast Broadband – delivery of interim solutions to fibre-based broadband in parallel with R100 commitments – Target date: 31 December 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Relatively immediate access for all households up to 30 megabytes.
• Improved IT connections.
• Improved business opportunities in isles.
• Increase in connectivity speeds.

Progress Update

The Delivery Plan action has been overtaken by the Council’s subsequent decision to develop a community wide Digital Strategy and development plan to consider the practical steps required now to deliver gigabit connectivity to all of Orkney.

Rather than continue to only lobby Government for improvements to connectivity in Orkney, the agreed approach is a more proactive one of considering actions to not just try to catch up, but to develop a future-proofed network that could be sustainable in a rural environment. Therefore, regarding this plan, this action has been closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action 1.8b

Input to the developing business case showing the impacts of not having affordable reliable full digital connectivity in the islands – Target date: 31 December 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Relatively immediate access for all households up to 30 megabytes.
• Improved IT connections.
• Improved business opportunities in isles.
• Increase in connectivity speeds.

Progress Update

Details of the Scottish Government's Reaching 100 broadband scheme have been released. The project is running late and will not deliver superfast broadband to all premises in Orkney. The Council continues to lobby Government, is developing an Orkney Digital Strategy and will consider additional measures to support the roll out of gigabit capable broadband to all premises in Orkney.

The Council is now working with a consultant to establish all options with a view to moving this forward. The consultant’s report states that around 66% of premises are able to access superfast broadband. It is likely that this action will be carried forward to the next Council Plan but it needs to include only what is within Council control.

Consideration to be given to extending the target date for this action to 31 January 2023 for the Council to complete the elements of this action within its control.

Status: RED.

Priority – Working with the Scottish Government, explore and plan for the replacement of Orkney’s internal ferry fleet

Action 1.9

Work with Scottish Government and other partners to progress the outcomes of the Inter Isles STAG (Strategic Transport Appraisal Guidelines) Strategic Business Cases in order to develop and then deliver the outline and final business cases for improved inter-isles transport services and the associated ferry, air and infrastructure improvements – Target date: 31 December 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Replace all ferries with ones which have the capacity and speed to deliver the improved service need and where possible new low carbon technology solutions.
• Ferries to meet environmental targets and to be disability compliant.
• Air services to meet the improved services standards outlined in STAG.

Progress Update

The Outline Business Case (OBC) work is progressing, a draft report was presented to the Senior Management Team in October 2021 who have raised some concern. A seminar with Elected Members took place on 17 January 2022 and a report was presented to the Development and Infrastructure Committee in February 2022 where approval was granted to appoint a project officer. It is proposed that the target date for this action be extended to 31 March 2023.

Status: RED.

2. CARING COMMUNITIES

Our target outcome: People in Orkney enjoy long, healthy and independent lives, with care and support available to those who need it.

Priority – Ensure mental health services continue to meet local need for people of all ages

Action 2.1

We will support the mental wellbeing of our children and young people by co-producing preventative approaches in consultation with young people as well as supporting early intervention and recovery/restorative services – Target date: 30 June 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Improved awareness of mental health and wellbeing issues in our children and young people and better mental wellbeing for children and young people.
• Council, young people and partners better informed.
• Improved and appropriate mental health services to meet the needs and requirements of young people.

Progress Update

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) staffing is now at full complement and the Action for Children Co-ordinator is also now in post. Recent examples of engagement are the inclusion of young people in the Alcohol and Drugs Partnership strategy consultation and the arrangement for a CAMHS worker to attend the Youth Forum.

This demonstrates business as usual for this work strand and is therefore complete. This action was reported as complete in the 2020/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.2

We will review our Child and Adolescent Mental Health service (CAMHS) provision and bring forward recommendations that align investment to our local need – Target date: 1 December 2018.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Realignment of resource and shared understanding of priority areas.

Progress Update

Due to significant Scottish Government funding, all island Boards are to have critical floor staffing of 14 people. The specific posts in relation to this were approved by the Integration Joint Board in late 2021. Plans are underway to recruit following successful recruitment to the post of Clinical Director - CAMHS.

Status: RED.

Action 2.3

We will address the known upcoming shortage of qualified Mental Health Officer in Orkney by training two more staff – Target date: 31 December 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sustaining our ability to meet statutory requirements relating to the care and welfare of people with mental disorder.

Progress Update

Two social workers successfully completed their Mental Health Officer training in September 2020 and have been given delegated authority from the Chief Social Work Officer. This action was reported as complete in the 2020/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Review the services provided for looked after children

Action 2.4

We will review commissioned services and bring forward recommendations in relation to children’s services priorities and long-term sustainability – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Realignment of resource and shared understanding of priority areas.

Progress Update

The Review of Services for Children and Young People in Need of Care and Protection was reported to Orkney Health and Care Committee on 6 June 2019. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.5

We will explore and establish ‘commissioned provision’ opportunities for education and care – Target date: 31 March 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• A service to meet the needs of those currently on the edge of care.
• A partnership framework identifying partnerships, approved providers and the services provided.
• Commissioning protocol for the above framework.

Progress Update

The service is now actively working with young people and being monitored regularly. Therefore, regarding this plan, this action has been closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.6

We will develop our Corporate Parenting approach and establish a Corporate Parenting Board – Target date: 31 March 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Corporate Parents successfully fulfil this statutory role and the voice of care experienced young people and care leavers influence service development and policy.

Progress Update

The Good Parenting Plan was approved by the Council in July 2020 and by the Community Planning Partnership Board in August 2020. The Partnership Board also approved the incorporation of the Good Parenting Board into its Terms of Reference.

The Good Parenting Plan has also been considered by NHS Orkney and the Integration Joint Board to ensure full ownership. This action was reported as complete in the 2020/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.7

We will undertake a review of residential childcare provision to reflect the changes brought about in the Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014 and bring forward recommendations to establish a residential estate fit for the medium term to include young people potentially up to the age of 25 – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Orkney has a range of placements available that promote stability for children and young people.

Progress Update

Recommendations in relation to the residential estate were contained within the Review of Services for Children and Young People in Need of Care and Protection. We have also completed a three-year programme of foster carer recruitment. This action was reported as complete in the 2018/19 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Address workforce development to make sure we have the right people in the right place at the right time

Action 2.8

We will work in partnership with NHS Orkney and the Integration Joint Board to develop a health and social care workforce plan that sets out the workforce and skills we need in Orkney to deliver required health and care services – Target date: 1 April 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Clarity about what staff and skills we need in Orkney for effective service delivery.

Progress Update

The Workforce Plan was approved by the Integration Joint Board on 9 December 2020.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.9

We will support our older people’s residential care home workforce to provide high-quality care to people with dementia by delivering specialist dementia care training to those staff – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• A well-equipped and confident workforce in relation to the provision of residential care to people with dementia.

Progress Update

Training has been reviewed and a training model developed in conjunction with the Dementia Specialist Nurse and Residential Home Managers. Training social care staff in relation to dementia is an ongoing service requirement and this model is now embedded as business as usual. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – We will work with others to respond to demographic change in redesigning health and social care services to provide the best care we can for those who need it in the appropriate place

Action 2.10

We will successfully complete the new build residential care home for older people in Stromness creating additional capacity and providing care for people with high levels of dependency – Target date: 30 September 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sufficient residential care capacity in Orkney.

Progress Update

Three wings at the Hamnavoe House care home were opened on 29 January 2020. Following joint conversations between Council and NHS Orkney Senior Managers, it was agreed that the vacant fourth wing of Hamnavoe House be utilised as a rehabilitation wing to reduce pressure on the Hospital.

Staff from both Health and Social Care worked together to ensure that the wing was ready for operation on 1 April 2020. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.11

We will successfully complete the new build residential care home for older people in Kirkwall creating additional capacity – Target date: 31 December 2024.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sufficient residential care capacity in Orkney.

Progress Update

The tender has now been awarded and early work will begin on the ground in late spring/early summer 2022.

Status: RED.

Action 2.12

We will redesign our supported accommodation services for people with learning disabilities and create a core and cluster model to support people in the community – Target date: 31 October 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• An improved service delivery model that creates additional capacity and is per care placement more cost effective.
• Staff and service users engaged in service redesign.

Progress Update

The new Learning Disability Core and Cluster was operational from 13 December 2021, with all tenants having moved in by the end of January 2022.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.13

We will review and redesign our approach to day care services, recognising that one of our current locations will soon no longer be fit for purpose and recognising that we could make better use of our other community settings – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Realignment of resource.
• Good quality and better-integrated day care services.
• Staff and service users engaged in service redesign.
• Improved use of building assets – reduction in overall number in use.

Progress Update

Service redesign will continue in due course when capacity allows and in line with the replacement for St Rognvald House. This will of course now need to be considered further taking the COVID-19 pandemic into consideration.

Status: RED.

Action 2.14

We will work with partners to encourage increased physical activity. We will explore, with partners, an exercise referral scheme – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Access to physical activity opportunities for people affected by cancer and other long-term conditions.
• Improved physical health within the local community.

Progress Update

Work has been undertaken with partners from the Pickaquoy Centre to deliver additional physical activity classes for people with a long-term condition. The Care Inspectorate has also delivered training to social care staff about the value of physical activity for all adult service users and this will be incorporated into service delivery plans.

We will continue to work with the Care Inspectorate to embed this philosophy. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – We will explore how care and/or support can be provided at home, work, or in education while making the best use of resources

Action 2.15

We will embed a reablement focussed approach in our home care service to ensure that we are working with people who receive the service to maximise their independence and ability to retain their skills and abilities as far as possible – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• People who receive the service will be enabled to maximise their independence and ability to retain their skills and abilities as far as possible.
• Efficient use of home care staff resources through sustained reduction in time spent on tasks people could be able to undertake independently with the right reablement support.

Progress Update

Occupational therapy input continues to support the reablement approach within homecare thus embedding this approach across the service, focusing on people who have reablement potential as well as supporting home carers to work in a reablement-focused way to maintain levels of independence.

The Occupational Therapist undertakes a homecare assessment in the initial six weeks to inform the package required. This is now our embedded approach within homecare. This action was reported as complete in the 2018/19 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 2.16

We will support people with disability into purposeful activities such as education / training employment or volunteering – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Improvement of opportunity for people with disability to use existing resources.

Progress Update

The Employment Service continues to perform well with regards participants in paid hours of work as well as supporting unpaid work experience / volunteering / befriending. There are two Employability Co-ordinators in post to take forward this approach. This action was reported as complete in the 2018/19 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

3. THRIVING COMMUNITIES

Our target outcome: The Orkney community is able to access work, learning and leisure through a modern, robust infrastructure which supports all our communities and meets the requirements of 21st century life.

Priority – Review Orkney’s learning landscape

Action 3.1

Extend the Orkney Offer to learners of all ages – Target date: 31 December 2022.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Orkney is recognised as a successful learning community and a ‘destination’ for learners of all types.

Progress Update

The National Improvement Framework plan agreed by Council was suspended in March 2020 as a result of COVID-19 lockdown. As such, limited progress has been made. A summary report was submitted to the Education, Leisure and Housing Committee in November 2020.

Rigorous monitoring of attainment continues to take place. The Scottish Government restarted data collection of attainment in P1, P4 and P7 in June 2021. The target is the 2019 national average plus 2% for every measure in the Broad General Education.

The Association of Directors of Education for Scotland and Education Scotland, in collaboration with Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles, are reviewing attainment in the Senior Phase over time and the Senior Phase (Orkney Offer) curriculum offer at present. The outcome will influence next steps.

In June 2022, the Education Service and Education Scotland Officer will carry out a Service self-evaluation to establish a long-term improvement agenda for education in Orkney.

Status: GREEN.

Action 3.2

Working with individual communities, explore the management of the school estate, promoting community participation and (where applicable) joint ownership – Target date: 31 December 2022.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Communities are enabled to be part of the management of this resource, maximising the benefits it can deliver for their specific needs.
• Communities empowered to tailor the school estate to meet their specific requirements.
• Greater community ownership and participation.

Progress Update

Officers from both Education, Leisure and Housing and Neighbourhood Services and Infrastructure are working with the Northern Alliance Estate team to establish a robust, long-term Learning Estate Strategy for Orkney that will be evidence based, stakeholder informed and facilitate access to Scottish Government funding.

A number of internal consultations have taken place in the first quarter of 2022 with the draft Learning Estate Strategy to be submitted to the Education, Leisure and Housing Committee in September 2022.

Status: GREEN.

Action 3.3

Digital Culture – we will undertake the development and delivery of an e-School programme – Target date: 31 December 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased curriculum and teaching opportunities.
• Greater access to support for pupils and staff.
• Reduced barriers to participation.
• Maintenance of services which are under pressure.

Progress Update

A Digital Depute Head Teacher has now been appointed and since November has been working across the Council, e-Sgoil (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) and the Northern Alliance Regional Improvement Collaborative.

The review of digital infrastructure, strategy and improvement will take place between August and October 2022 and will involve all Education, Leisure and Housing establishments. An Orkney Digital Improvement Investment Plan will be drafted in November 2022.

Since November 2021, six Orkney youngsters have enrolled with e-Sgoil (National e-Learning Offer service for interrupted learners) and there were 186 Orkney registrations for national Easter Study Support interactive webinars in 2022.

The service is progressing towards a device for every child, with a trial of Google devices and Google Workspace for Education scheduled to begin with the P6 group in St Andrews Primary School in August 2022 and Windows laptops arriving in Stromness Academy in May 2022 for a parallel trial with S3 and S4 cohorts.

Status: RED.

Action 3.4

We will maintain and improve the quality and condition of the school estates – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Orkney’s school estates supporting lifelong learning in communities.

Progress Update

Officers from both Education, Leisure and Housing and Neighbourhood Services and Infrastructure are working closely with the Northern Alliance Estate Team to work on the formal Conditional and Suitability assessments of all schools in the local authority area. This forms part of a wider learning estate strategy development and will provide a robust foundation for planning and development.

Status: GREEN.

Action 3.5

We will develop lifelong learning opportunities through the Community Learning Programme which will include a family learning programme – Target date: 31 December 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Successful learners.
• Confident individuals.
• Effective contributors.
• Responsible citizens.
• Increased numbers of youth accreditations.
• Increased learning, confidence and skills developed.
• Progression pathways developed.
• Increased opportunities to participate in the local community.
• Relevant and effective Family Learning opportunities available.
• Family bonds strengthened.

Progress Update

Throughout this period, Community Learning and Development (CLD) delivered a vast selection of Community Learning classes through online, face to face and blended learning approaches and provided a variety of Family Learning opportunities. A new online booking system has been launched for Community Learning classes. This action was reported as complete in the 2020/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 3.6

Review the policy and provision for staffing, curriculum and financial management of our schools to ensure resources are most effectively targeted at ‘raising the bar and closing the gap’ – Target date: 30 November 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sustainability of a learning offer across our communities.

Progress Update

Primary and Secondary staffing policy is to be linked to the new Devolved School Management policy and guidance. Work to progress this has been delayed due to staff shortages and is now anticipated to be complete for August 2022.

Status: RED.

Action 3.7

We will review Trust options for sports, leisure and learning – Target date: 31 December 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sustainable and efficient range of services and opportunities as part of Orkney’s human and social capital.

Progress Update

A refreshed working relationship has been established with the Pickaquoy Centre Trust General Manager. Agreements are now in place for formally managing the relationship between the Council and the Trust. This action was reported as complete in the 2018/19 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Work with partners to develop strategies for improving housing conditions and reducing fuel poverty

Action 3.8

We will review the Local Housing Strategy – Target date: 31 December 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Revised strategy covering housing priorities.

Progress Update

The Local Housing Strategy was presented to the Education, Leisure and Housing committee in November 2020. This action was reported as complete in the 2020/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 3.9

We will continue to deliver the Fuel Poverty Strategy, to seek to secure appropriate funding and in turn to reduce fuel poverty – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increasing number of energy efficiency measures installed in houses regardless of tenure.
• Continued delivery of projects related to the reduction of fuel poverty.

Progress Update

Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Schemes (EES: ABS) 2021/22 is now closed to new applicants and we are working with our managing agents Warmworks to complete all installations by the deadline of 30 June 2022.

For the 2021/22 programme we had 150 households participating with a committed spend of circa £1.2 million. We are anticipating the 2022/23 EES:ABS bid pack shortly from the Scottish Government to progress energy efficient measures in the private housing sector.

Plans are being developed to meet the Council's obligations to comply with the revised Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH).

Status: AMBER.

Priority – Continue to influence the Islands Bill and ensure that it meets the needs of our community

Action 3.10

We will continue to make representation to influence the Islands Bill and National Islands Plan to achieve the best possible outcome for our Communities – Target date: 31 December 2018.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• An Islands Bill which represents the needs of, and empowers, our community.

Progress Update

Development of the National Islands Plan by the Scottish Government had progressed at a slower pace than anticipated. However, the Council submitted its response to the consultation by the deadline and, following that, the National Islands Plan was approved by the Scottish Government on 3 October 2019. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Explore how communities can be further empowered to take decisions on services throughout Orkney

Action 3.11

We will review and develop the Empowering Communities Project to create a sustainable model which will enable and empower communities in the delivery of services and projects in their community – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• More efficient delivery of services at a local level, with associated local employment opportunities.

Progress Update

The Empowering Communities Project was reviewed in 2020 with the Policy and Resources Committee in November 2020 recommending that the project team be established on a permanent basis. The stabilisation of the team has been implemented and the Link Officer for Orkney Mainland community council area is currently being recruited to.

Status: GREEN.

Action 3.12

Pursue the aim of enabling and empowering communities to support the Council in delivery of services as an alternative to current systems and have more involvement in decision making about local services – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• More efficient delivery of services at a local level, with associated local employment opportunities.

Progress Update

The Empowering Communities Project was reviewed in 2020 with the Policy and Resources Committee in November 2020 recommending that the project team be established on a permanent basis. The stabilisation of the team has been implemented and the Link Officer for Orkney Mainland community council area is currently being recruited to.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – Work with partners to explore options for shared public service delivery through the review of local governance

Action 3.13

Explore new ways to deliver public services within Orkney – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Streamlined governance for our islands.
• Pooled shared support services leading to more resources at point of service delivery.

Progress Update

Following consideration by Scottish Government (SG) of the Council’s submission to the Local Governance Review in November 2020, a meeting was held in early April 2021 with Scottish Government officers to discuss the Single Authority Model proposal.

Progress was suspended during the 2021 Scottish Parliamentary election and a response from Scottish Ministers is awaited before this workstream can move forward. Given the lack of response, it is looking increasingly unlikely that this action will be completed in accordance with the planned timetable.

Status: AMBER.

4. ENTERPRISING COMMUNITIES

Our target outcome: A vibrant carbon neutral economy which supports local businesses and stimulates investment in all our communities.

Priority – Continue to develop strategic projects, particularly to capitalise on the renewable sector

Action 4.1

Develop Orkney as a Low Carbon Energy Systems Innovation Hub, including LNG Distribution, Hydrogen production and usage across all modes of transport and Academic Innovation Centre projects – Target date: 31 March 2025.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To develop innovative low carbon energy projects.
• To position Orkney as the globally recognised innovation centre for low carbon transport.

Progress Update

A wide range of project activity is underway including the Islands Centre for Net Zero (ICNZ) as part of the Islands Deal, development of the Orkney Research and Innovation Campus (ORIC), the Future Fuels Hub at Scapa Deep Water Quay, ongoing dialogue with universities, continued progress of hydrogen projects, including international networking and engagement.

The Islands Deal achieved Heads of Terms stage in March 2021 and includes provision for extension to ORIC and ICNZ proposal. The ORIC and ICNZ projects have progressed to submission of OBC (Outline Business Case) stage with OBCs approved for submission by the Joint Committee to Scottish and UK Governments.

Status: GREEN.

Action 4.2

Strategic investment in projects to generate income and/or deliver significant community benefits – Target date: 31 March 2025.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sustainable energy generation, use and export, and thereby income for recirculation within Orkney.

Progress Update

Community Wind Project, Private Wire, and the Port Master Plan projects are all making progress. All projects have had an element of delay due to COVID-19.

For Community Wind / Private Wire, planning applications for Quanterness and Hoy were submitted in January and September 2020 respectively. Survey delays were experienced for Faray due to COVID-19 but a planning application was submitted in May 2021.

The Quanterness and Hoy applications were given approval by Ministers in December 2021. Determination of the Faray application is now critical to the OFGEM 135MW target.

Status: GREEN.

Action 4.3

Reprioritise economic development activity and funding to focus on inward investment and facilitating projects and support programmes which will have the highest/transformational impact in relation to job creation, inward migration/retention of working-age population and community enablement – Target date: 31 August 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To support local community and business growth to support population retention and growth.

Progress Update

A seminar was held with members of the Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2018 to discuss Economic Development priorities. A follow up seminar with Elected Members took place on 17 December 2018 to progress reprioritisation.

Following this, a report was presented to the September 2019 meeting of the Development and Infrastructure Committee to identify budget / service priorities. A permanent post of Volume Tourism Development and Management Officer has been established to cover this key sector. This action was reported as complete in the 2019 to 2020 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 4.4

Develop Scapa Flow and other Orkney harbours for oil and gas activity and continue to diversify and grow all marine business activity – stimulate marine and non-marine employment – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Sustainable business levels in Orkney Harbours in order to sustain harbours revenues to maintain lifeline and commercial port services and employment across Orkney and to act as a catalyst for other economic growth.

Progress Update

Growth is now showing consistently along with recovery of the COVID-19 issues. The Crown Estate made an announcement in January 2022 which increased the gigawatts to 25 with increasing opportunities around Orkney which we are capitalising on.

Status: GREEN.

Action 4.5

Establish Crown Estates marine management pilot status and Marine Planning Authority Functions – with focus on Island Authority governance and local expertise model – Target date: 31 December 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Transfer of functions and income.
• Dedicated professional Marine Planning Service.

Progress Update

A Pilot Scheme has been established and recruitment of post to undertake the functions has been completed.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Explore ways to reduce the volume, and cost of handling, the county’s waste

Action 4.6

Review and establish fresh approach for waste management/recycling/handling including community-based models – Target date: 30 September 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Principally to reduce the cost of waste disposal.
• Increase community participation and responsibility.

Progress Update

The Stage 2 Capital Project Appraisal in respect of the proposed Integrated Waste Facility (IWF), identifying additional treatment options for waste/recycling in Orkney and with subsequent increases in recycling rates has been approved, subject to the availability of Scottish Government funding.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Work with partners to develop and manage high-volume tourism and associated infrastructure

Action 4.7

Implement and review the Orkney Volume Tourism Study actions, where applicable to the Council, including sourcing external funding for infrastructure, successful strategic management of Destination Orkney Partnership, and the improved integration of transport – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To manage the impacts and economic opportunities associated with increasing visitor numbers.
• To spread tourist activity around all of Orkney.

Progress Update

The finalised Orkney Tourism Strategy 2020 to 2025 was approved by the Partner Agencies in March 2020. The results of the latest visitor survey were published in May 2020. A review meeting on the Destination Orkney Strategy Partnership was held in November 2020.

The Point of Ness camping site has been successful in attracting £260,000 from the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund. The draft Strategic Tourism Infrastructure Development Plan for Orkney was approved for public consultation at the Development and Infrastructure Committee in February 2022.

Expressions of interest for development costs for 5 projects were submitted to the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund and project design funding of £98,400 was approved on 15 March 2022.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – Explore options for revenue generation via the tourism sector to support associated infrastructure

Action 4.8

Develop and Implement a World Heritage Site Strategic Masterplan including Gateway facility and core infrastructure projects – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To provide effective visitor management and address infrastructure constraints.

Progress Update

World Heritage Site Masterplan recommended for approval by Development and Infrastructure Committee in April 2019. This covers five key elements - orientation centre, vehicle access and parking, footpath and active travel network, interpretation and other facilities, for example toilets, charging points and camper vans.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Council, Historic Environment Scotland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise was signed in June 2019 committing all three bodies to work together to conserve the World Heritage Site and enhance the visitor experience by looking at ways to manage the increasing number of visitors to the site.

The World Heritage Site Gateway project has secured £6.5M through the Islands Deal and consultants have been appointed to prepare an Outline Business Case. Public consultation on the proposals was undertaken during September and October 2021 to inform preparation of the Outline Business Case. The Outline Business Case was drafted at the end of March 2022.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – Progress the Islands Deal to deliver innovative, enterprising and transformational projects

Action 4.9

Work in partnership with the two other Islands Councils to finalise the Islands Deal – Target date: 31 December 2022.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To prioritise and refine Orkney projects to be submitted for Islands Deal funding.

Progress Update

Islands Deal Heads of Terms (HoT) were signed on 17 March 2021. The HoT lists the agreed projects with the Deal and the funding allocated to each. The majority of the project Outline Business Cases have now been submitted to UK and Scottish Governments.

Current indications are that both governments are still content with a project date for finalising the Deal by the end of 2022.

Status: GREEN.

Action 4.10

Ensure appropriate “Islands Project” funding mechanisms (internal and external) are in place to support key industry sectors (pre and post-BREXIT), targeting the Shared Prosperity Fund and other distribution mechanisms – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To ensure support for key business sectors and replacement for EU funds which will be lost.

Progress Update

The Council continues to engage with the UK Government on the new Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) which will replace EU economic regional aid after Brexit. The UK Government has confirmed that there will be 3 separate funds: (1) UK Community Renewal Fund, (2) UK Levelling Up Fund and (3) UK Community Ownership Fund.

Discussions are ongoing with the UK Government and other Highlands and Islands local authorities regarding the implications/applicability of the new funds. There are also discussions in respect of future policy and funding opportunities post-Brexit for Agriculture and Fisheries.

The Council invited applications to the Community Renewable Fund, four applications were received and assessed, with one meeting the criteria and has been passed to the UK Government for assessment for funding. The application was unsuccessful.

In June 2021, the Policy and Resources Committee recommended approval of the establishment of a temporary post of Projects and Funding Officer to support the submission of funding bids for UK Government grant funds. Recruitment to the post was unsuccessful and as an alternative Scottish Futures Trust/Hub North Scotland have been engaged to facilitate the submission of bids.

Policy and Resources Committee in March 2022 agreed that a project for upgrading harbour infrastructure in North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray and Graemsay be developed for submission to round 2 of the Levelling Up Fund.

Status: GREEN.

5. QUALITY OF LIFE

Our target outcome: Orkney has a flourishing population, with people of all ages choosing to stay, return or relocate here for a better quality of life.

Priority – To promote good practice and social responsibility in areas such as driving, parking, waste disposal and dog walking

Action 5.1

Consider scope of car parking responsibilities, speed limits and infrastructure and the establishment of enhanced parking warden services including, where practicable, a new environmental warden service. This remit to include consideration of decriminalised parking and patrol service to deal with the enforcement of environmental issues including dog fouling, littering, graffiti, fly tipping and abandoned vehicles – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased enforcement, improved road safety and more considerate parking.

Progress Update

Initial report to the Roads and Environmental Services Consultative Group in December 2018 acknowledged concerns linked to decriminalised parking. A further Consultative Group meeting (joint between Roads and Environmental Services and Planning and Regulatory Services) was held on 15 March 2019.

This highlighted mixed views on whether to proceed with a car parking / Environmental Health Officer enforcement model and equally to advance Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE) noting the need to be self-financing.

Staff resources and budget limitations continue to prevent this being progressed to conclusion at this stage however we continue to review the position and are engaging with Transport Scotland and other local authorities in a similar position to identify appropriate ways forward.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.2

We will take youth work approaches to promote and encourage social responsibility in young people, for example, through volunteering opportunities – Target date: 31 December 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased social responsibility.
• Young people make informed choices.
• Positive quality of life.
• Active volunteering.

Progress Update

During the COVID-19 lockdown, Community Learning and Development (CLD) worked with local and national partners to provide a comprehensive online training programme for those working in the youth work sector.

CLD has been providing several youth work opportunities digitally and we are now working to re-establish face to face youth work in line with current regulations. We are currently providing universal youth work provision, youth accreditation and progression through Youth Achievement, Hi 5, Dynamic Youth and Duke of Edinburgh.

During this time we have also provided targeted youth work in schools, working positively with young people who are often facing increased challenges and barriers. We were unable to deliver certain youth projects such as Police Scotland Youth Volunteering (PSYV), First Aid Ready and Firstskills during this time. This action was reported as complete in the 2020/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – To protect Orkney’s landscape and wildlife heritage

Action 5.3

Implementation of North Isles Landscape Partnership Project – Target date: 31 March 2024.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Delivery of high level of attention to natural heritage implications arising from new development.

Progress Update

Project Manager and all other project team members are in post and started working from the new office accommodation (Athol House, Kirkwall) on 7 January 2019.

Delegation to permit Council officers to deliver the scheme on behalf of the Partnership, for example to determine project grant applications from community groups, was approved by Council, following consideration by the Development and Infrastructure Committee in June 2019.

Project grant applications are being received and processed and projects are being developed. As a result of the project being delayed due to COVID-19, funders have agreed that the project be extended until March 2024.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.4

Implementation of the Orkney Local Biodiversity Action Plan and participation in the Orkney Native Wildlife Project – Target date: 31 December 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Up-to-date plan in place to promote improvements to biodiversity.
• Implementation of the Orkney Natural Wildlife Project.

Progress Update

The finalised Orkney Local Bio-diversity Action Plan was presented to Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2018. It includes an action plan for the period 2018 to 2022. OIC is the lead for several actions.

The Council is participating in the Orkney Native Wildlife Project Steering Group and Partnership Board. A report went to Policy and Resources Committee in December 2020 detailing how the Council is complying with its biodiversity duties.

A report was presented to the Policy and Resources Committee in April 2021 on the Council signing up to the Edinburgh Declaration on Biodiversity which is aimed at showing political support for global action on biodiversity.

In August 2021 the Scottish Government awarded the Council £16,000 funding from the Nature Restoration Fund to be spent on local biodiversity projects by the end of March 2022 and this funding is to be used for the creation of a wildflower meadow at Papdale Park.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.5

Continue to maintain and enhance environmental survey and response capability – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Maintain high standards of environmental monitoring and research activity.

Progress Update

An Aquaculture Water Quality Impact Modelling Assessment for Scapa Flow was presented to the Special Meeting of the Development and Infrastructure Committee on 26 September 2018, indicating that nutrient release from current and planned fish farms is sufficient to maintain compliance with Water Framework Directive coastal water standards.

This pioneering work was shortlisted for a Scottish Award for Quality and Planning. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has indicated that they are no longer able to provide funding and technical support, and a report was presented to the Planning and Regulatory Services Consultative Group in November 2020.

Elected Members advised to maintain contact with SEPA with a view to progressing this at some point in the future. As part of the regional marine plan making process, a State of the Environment Assessment of Orkney waters was published in November 2020.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – To protect and promote Orkney’s unique culture and community events

Action 5.6

Continue to support Community Associations and Community Schools – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Protecting and promoting the use of community schools and community halls for communities.
• Sustainable, empowered communities.

Progress Update

Community Learning and Development (CLD) continues to provide support and guidance to community schools, village halls and the wider community by attending meetings on a regular basis, arranging planning meetings, running the annual halls event and organising various training and partnership events.

A review of the community school handbook is scheduled. The majority of community halls are now open following lockdown so CLD is providing continuous support and providing bespoke guidance updates in line with changes to national regulations and guidance.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.7

Work in partnership to deliver the Strategy to Further Protect Orkney’s Cultural Heritage – Target date: 31 December 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To contribute to the further protection of Orkney’s cultural heritage now and into the future.

Progress Update

Some of the key actions which have been delivered through the strategy include:

• The completion and adoption of a Masterplan for the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.
• Purchase, by the Council, of the land which houses the Stones of Stenness car park, and proposals in development for the improvement of the car park.
• Support for Orkney’s intangible cultural heritage through Culture Fund grants to projects such as the Orkney Storytelling Festival and projects in Papa Westray to capture dialect and dance traditions.
• Successful awarding of funding for the North Isles Landscape Partnership.
• A focussed project to start the process of transferring paper records on to a new digital museums catalogue through funding from the Significance Recognition Scheme, managed on behalf of the Scottish Government by Museums Galleries Scotland.
• The publication of a Volume Tourism Study.
• Additional signage placed at site car parks with information about other sites to visit and where visitors can access public toilets.

This action was reported as complete in the 2019 to 2020 Annual Performance Report. There is, however, a need to determine next steps and decide on future priorities / strategy. This action was reported as complete in the 2010/21 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 5.8

Further promote and administer the Culture Fund through core funding and grant assistance scheme to support community cultural activity – Target date: 31 March 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• A diversity of arts, heritage and cultural activity is provided by organisations and groups for Orkney’s community.

Progress Update

The Open Pot was highly oversubscribed as usual for the 2020 to 2021 financial year. Grants have been awarded, however, COVID-19 has had an impact on the ability for organisations to deliver activities and projects and some grantees are contacting the Council seeking the approval to make changes to their projects, for example, taking activity online rather than live performance.

Core grant recipients continue to be supported with their revenue costs in line with national support. This action was reported as complete in the 2019/20 Annual Performance Report.

Status: BLUE.

Action 5.9

Maintain, promote and develop accessibility to collections held within the Museums Service, including development of Scapa Flow Museum – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Our museums and heritage sites provide high-quality visitor experiences and opportunities for education and lifelong learning.

Progress Update

All appointments complete and fitout underway. Content development finished. Practical completion for fitout is 16 June 2022. Installation of collection is 16-27 June 2022. Soft opening scheduled for 2 July 2022.

Operating budget shortfall met following approval at Corporate Leadership Team. Shop stock ordering underway. Staff recruitment underway. Appointment of case operator underway.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.10

Work with partners to support Orkney’s hosting of the 2025 Island Games – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased number and quality of coaches and volunteers.
• Improved facilities.
• Enhancement of Orkney’s profile across the UK and internationally.
• Increase the quality of Orkney sport.

Progress Update

Leisure and Culture Service Manager attends monthly 2025 Organising Committee meetings. A draft strategy and governance framework have been produced and will be finalised and progressed when the Games Director starts in post.

Status: GREEN.

Priority – To eliminate single use/disposable plastic items within the Council, where possible, and support others to do likewise

Action 5.11

Increased education and awareness raising activity associated with recycling and waste reduction agenda. Supporting young people to take forward the plastic straw initiative – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Establish dedicated Member Officer Working Group.
• Identification of affordable initiatives to meet this objective.
• Pupils speak to headteachers, parent councils and officers.

Progress Update

Education and awareness raising around single use plastics is now standard within the team and reflects proposed Scottish Government legislation banning the use of these items. The climate change officer has also taken on consideration of these issues as part of their day-to-day role.

Status: BLUE.

Priority – Work with partners to provide opportunities to make Orkney an attractive location for young people to live, work and study

Action 5.12

Prioritise marketing activity with a focus on international/emerging markets/internal investment opportunities – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To raise awareness of Orkney as a producer of quality goods and services as well as an attractive place to do business.
• Enhanced profile across the UK and internationally.

Progress Update

A review of the Economic Development resource priorities has been undertaken and was presented to Development and Infrastructure Committee on 10 September 2019 as part of the reprioritisation agenda identifying future budget / service priorities.

A report on continuing marketing support through the Orkney Marketing Programme was presented to Council in June 2020. COVID-19 grant funding was provided by the Council to Orkney Food and Drink, Creative Orkney and Orkney Marketing in August 2021 to provide additional support for marketing as part of the economic recovery from COVID-19.

STV delivered a promote Orkney advertising campaign in October 2021. Visit Scotland has provided grant funding of £60,000 for a Spring 2022 advertising campaign.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.13

Develop and implement an appropriately resourced Maintenance Strategy for all individual Council property assets – Target date: 31 December 2022.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To ensure all OIC-owned assets are well maintained.

Progress Update

Proactive and Preventative Maintenance Plans are currently being reviewed at an operational level. The size of the Council property estate is extensive and one essential link is to progress the disposal of properties not required by the Council to reduce the scope of this – in the form of the Asset Management Review.

In the absence of new funding these pressures will have to be managed as prioritisation of urgent works within existing budget, which will mean an overall reduction in the condition of the estates, and potential future higher cost repair requirements.

It is important to ensure this can be assessed and forecast to identify priority and any gaps. Capital funding is tied to approval of the Capital Programme which will not be completed until Elected Members have considered it. A new strategy will be presented to Council in 2022.

Status: AMBER.

Action 5.14

Work with Kirkwall BID and other constituted business organisations to maintain and improve the vitality and viability of town and village centres – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• To develop projects and services that will enhance the vitality and viability of Kirkwall Town Centre.

Progress Update

Kirkwall BID was allocated Residual Town Centre Fund for Victoria Street signage project. Dialogue with Town Centre site developer ongoing with pre-planning work being costed.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.15

Facilitate the development of Orkney’s Play Areas through the implementation of the Play Area Strategy – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• An improved playscape for Orkney creating opportunities for families (local and visiting) to be more active.

Progress Update

Work ongoing on Phase 1 of the Papdale open space development with an estimated completion date of end of July 2022. Prior to the end of financial year 2021/22, improvement works were carried out on the skatepark using Scottish Government funding.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.16

We will work towards implementing the recommendations of the Sports Strategy – Target date: 31 December 2021.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased participation in physical activity; increase in number of people who fall into the ‘healthy weight’ category.

Progress Update

Work is ongoing with Sport Scotland and other partners to develop the new strategy. Review meetings arranged with stakeholders, with the revised/updated Strategy due to be presented to Education, Leisure and Housing Committee in September 2022.

Status: RED.

Action 5.17

Consider the redevelopment of the Point of Ness Campsite and develop the Birsay Campsite facilities – Target date: 31 December 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Increased capacity of the site and improved visitor experience.

Progress Update

Majority of works completed and the Ness campsite will open on 23 May 2022, which is later than planned due to material delays and contractor availability.

There are still some elements of the project to be completed after the site is opened on 23 May 2022, which are completion of the store for electric bikes and completion of the location for the new recycling skip.

Status: RED.

Action 5.18

Engage with the Scottish Government and Scottish Water to seek to identify viable solutions to reduce risk of flooding to communities:

a. St Margaret’s Hope
b. St Marys
c. Stronsay, Whitehall
d. Kirkwall

Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Reduce Flood Risk to the 1 in 200-year level.
• The plans will inform the capital project programme investment.

Progress Update

All flooding ‘at risk’ areas have now been incorporated into a Flood Risk Plan. Risks will be prioritised in order that applications can be made on a priority basis to Scottish Government for funding.

Subject to funding, the aim is for each area to be dealt with in turn, noting that no current funding is available. Draft flood risk plan has been concluded. Currently there is no indication that funding for any of the schemes will be readily available. Work is commencing on the Shoreline Management Plan.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.19

Establish and implement terrestrial and marine planning policy and environmental monitoring systems – Target date: 31 March 2023.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• An appropriate balance of development and protection of land and marine environmental resource.

Progress Update

A report was presented to the Policy and Resources Committee in September 2018 on the establishment of an Orkney Marine Planning Partnership to develop a regional marine plan.

A draft direction was received in August 2019 to delegate regional marine planning functions to the Council as a single delegate implementing Section 27 provisions of the Islands (Scotland) Act 2018. The Scottish Government issued a direction to delegate regional marine planning functions to the Council in July 2020.

Delegation of regional marine planning functions to the Council commenced on 27 November 2020, and the first meeting of the Orkney Marine Planning Advisory Group established to assist the Council with preparation of the Marine Plan was held in March 2021.

A statement of public participation setting out the process and timetable for preparing the Regional Marine Plan was published in August 2021. A draft list of policies for the Regional Marine Plan was agreed by the Marine Planning Partnership in November 2021. The draft Regional Marine Plan will be presented to the Development and Infrastructure Committee in November 2022.

Status: GREEN.

Action 5.20

Continue investment programme for the care and expansion (where necessary) of burial grounds across Orkney – Target date: 31 December 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Adequate lair provision for several decades to come across Orkney as a whole.
• Maintaining quality Burial Ground assets.

Progress Update

The majority of cemetery extensions in the current programme are almost complete, with the final one due to start construction in April 2022. The identified list of major works is almost complete but will require spend in financial year 2022/23. This has been agreed with Finance colleagues.

Status: RED.

6. BEST VALUE ACTION PLAN

Action BV1a

Workforce Planning – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Council services delivered by the best possible
• Council staff resource that can be afforded within current financial constraints.

Progress Update

Develop detailed Council-wide and service workforce plans that consider future workforce needs, current capacity, supply and recruitment, skills, and financial constraints.

These plans will be reviewed periodically as the Council’s priorities evolve.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV1b

Capital Projects – Target date: 31 March 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Council buildings and other physical infrastructure, and physical assets including ferries, tugs and pilot launches, which better meet the needs of service users and the general public, through having been completed on time and within budget.

Progress Update

Implement the Project Management Module on Concerto. Raise awareness of the newly developed Capital Project Appraisal Guidance amongst the Corporate Management Team and others with a role in capital project applications.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV1c

Long-term Financial Plan – Target date: 31 December 2018.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• A financially sustainable Council, that is able to deliver services, maintain assets, and achieve its strategic objectives.

Progress Update

Develop a long-term financial plan for the ten-year period 2018 to 2028. This plan will be reviewed periodically as the Council’s priorities evolve.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV1d(i)

Digital Strategy and IT Strategy – Target date: 31 March 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• More accessible information on the Council and its services, and the ability to carry out transactions, all on a 24/7 basis, whilst maintaining the option for non-digital alternatives; and, within the Council, more modern, more efficient, and more cost-effective Council administration.

Progress Update

Implement the Digital Strategy and IT Strategy, and associated work-plans. This strategy will be reviewed periodically as the Council’s priorities evolve.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV1d(ii)

Customer Services Platform – Target date: 31 December 2020.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• More accessible information on the Council and its services, and the ability to carry out transactions, all on a 24/7 basis, whilst maintaining the option for non-digital alternatives; and, within the Council, more modern, more efficient, and more cost-effective Council administration.

Progress Update

Complete the introduction of the Customer Services Platform, and the Council Website redesign.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV2

Self-evaluation – Target date: 28 February 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Improvements and developments to Council services that have been informed by a greater understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of Council services.

Progress Update

Review the Council’s current self-evaluation arrangements and develop a revised How Good is Our Council? model encompassing corporate level, as well as service level, self-assessments.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV4a

Service Planning – Target date: 30 June 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Service users and the general public with a better understanding of, and greater confidence in, the extent to which Council services and activities focus on Orkney and its communities.

Progress Update

Within the new Council Plan 2018-2023, and the new 2019-2022 service plans, make explicit the intended impact of Council and service priorities and targets on Orkney’s communities.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV4b

Committee Recommendations – Target date: 30 June 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Service users and the general public with a better understanding of, and greater confidence in, the extent to which Council services and activities focus on Orkney and its communities.

Progress Update

Where appropriate, make explicit the link between Council committee recommendations and the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV5a

Strategic Planning Framework – Target date: 31 December 2018.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Service users and the general public with greater confidence in the extent to which Council services and activities, and those provided jointly with the Council’s partners, are as good as they can be, within current financial constraints.

Progress Update

Within the context of the Strategic Planning Framework, review the Council’s performance management system to ensure its ability to identify the impact of Council services and activities on Orkney’s communities.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV5b

Local Government Benchmarking Framework Indicators – Target date: 30 June 2019.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Service users and the general public with greater confidence in the extent to which Council services and activities, and those provided jointly with the Council’s partners, are as good as they can be, within current financial constraints.

Progress Update

Report Local Government Benchmarking Framework Indicators to Service Committees.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

Action BV5c

The Orkney Partnership - Performance Management and Reporting Procedure Indicators – Target date: 31 December 2018.

What outcomes do we aim to achieve?

• Service users and the general public with greater confidence in the extent to which Council services and activities, and those provided jointly with the Council’s partners, are as good as they can be, within current financial constraints.

Progress Update

Review The Orkney Partnership’s performance management and reporting procedure to ensure that it is focused on the Partnership’s strategic priorities and outcomes.

This action is now closed.

Status: BLUE.

IMAGE: The closing page displays the Orkney Islands Council crest and the document title. It also presents five organisational values with their accompanying wording: “People: We put our colleagues and our communities at the heart of everything we do”; “Unity: We are one Council and achieve more when we support, encourage and value each other”; “Trust: We trust, respect and empower each other and act with honesty and integrity”; “Ownership: We take personal and shared responsibility, are transparent, and are accountable for our actions and our impact”; and “Creativity: We embrace innovative solutions with a drive to improve ways of working”.