Island Cost Crisis Fund
Providing practical support for families under pressure
In 2024/25, Shetland Islands Council used the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund (ICCEF) to deliver immediate, practical support for households under pressure. With a focus on tackling child poverty, the fund enabled a wide range of initiatives — from warm, welcoming community spaces to direct payments for families — making a tangible difference to people across the isles.
What we did
- Community Pop-ins – 93 sessions in 22 halls, attended by 1,127 people (including 251 children). Pop-ins offered food, company, access to advice, and essentials such as clothing and period products. 23 local agencies, including CAB, Tesco, Women’s Aid, Anchor for Families and RSPB, supported delivery.
- Youth and Vulnerable Learners Support – 187 young people and adults had access to food through the Hub and late-night drop-ins. Partnership work with OPEN provided a safe space for social contact.
- Secondary School Breakfasts – Over 15,000 breakfasts served across schools, helping improve attendance, concentration and wellbeing, and reducing stigma by being universally available.
- Targeted Family Support – Anchor for Families provided essential items, while Council catering staff volunteered on Christmas Day to deliver 110 festive meals across Lerwick, Scalloway, Bressay and Burra.
- Winter Payments – Two direct payments to families receiving Free School Meals and Clothing Grants supported 669–686 families (over 1,300 children) with costs such as food, heating, and clothing.
Impact
Feedback shows that these supports not only eased financial pressures but also strengthened wellbeing and resilience:
- Families reported being able to keep homes warm, buy clothing, and give children experiences otherwise unaffordable.
- Pop-ins reduced isolation, with people describing them as “the highlight of the week”.
- Schools observed improved focus and attendance linked to free breakfasts.
- Parents highlighted the dignity of universal and direct supports, reducing stigma.
Partnership working
Delivery involved 23 partner organisations, from statutory services to community groups and businesses. This collaboration ensured support reached those most in need while also strengthening community connections.
Contribution to the Shetland Partnership
- Participation: Enabling residents to access local help without stigma.
- People: Reducing child poverty and supporting wellbeing.
- Place: Strengthening community halls and hubs as inclusive spaces.
- Money: Maximising household income and reducing financial strain.