You’re doing something positive, says community council clerk Colin

“You’re doing something positive” says community council clerk Colin 

Colin McAlpine has worked as a Clerk for Stronsay Community Council for 15 years, ensuring the views and aspirations of his community are conveyed to decision makers including Orkney Islands Council.  

There are twenty community councils around Orkney, each offering communities a direct way to make their voices heard and raise issues that affect their parish or Island.  

Clerks are a vital part of a healthy community council – they ensure meetings are run smoothly and that members have quality information to help them make decisions on behalf of their area.  

Currently, there are vacancies for Clerks in seven community councils - Eday, Evie & Rendall, Firth & Stenness, Orphir, Shapinsay, South Ronaldsay & Burray and Westray.

Day to day, Community Councils play a vital role in the county, representing community interests, supporting local initiatives, and working with Orkney Islands Council and other public bodies to help guide the delivery of services and facilities. 

Colin says he finds his role as a Clerk hugely rewarding: “I enjoy the challenge of it, the excitement, the variety. I would recommend it because it’s a worthwhile job. You're doing something positive to try and help your community.” 
 
Clerks receive a payment based on the number of meetings they support each year - but the real rewards are getting to know your community better and helping progress local initiatives. 

Watch Colin speak about his role in the short video below.