Survey to scope support needs of creative sector in island communities

A new research project to gauge the economic and social impacts of the creative industries in Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides has been launched.

The aim of the survey is to establish what professional and practical support is needed by people working in the sector on the islands.

The findings will be used to shape development of new networks of creative practice hubs.

Funding for the initiative is coming from the Islands Growth Deal’s Creative Islands Wellbeing Programme, which is being supported by £6 million from the Scottish and UK governments.

The work is being carried out by the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) centre for island creativity.

Professor Keith McIntyre, the centre’s interim director, said: “Our islands are a source of inspiration for artists, designers, filmmakers and creative businesses working in so many sectors. It is of real importance to the development of the programme that we focus on identifying and understanding local opportunities and community priorities.

“We want to create a foundation that not only retains our talented thinkers, manufacturers, producers and creators, it also attracts imaginative entrepreneurial talent and new businesses into our islands’ creative economy and beyond.”

The survey is open until July 19 and researchers want to hear from anyone interested in relocating or returning to the islands as well as those already based there.

INSIGHT: Prof Keith McIntyre wants to better understand the support needed by creative businesses on the islands.