Contributions will be made by a payment of £150.00 directly to Council Tax accounts. These payments will mean that over 1,000 households in Shetland will be able to reduce instalments, create credit payments, or be able to divert money to other priorities.

The cost of living contribution has been made possible through the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Funding, received by the council from the Scottish Government, to support the higher cost of living in Shetland this winter.

Other measures providing breakfasts to secondary school children across Shetland, from October to March next year; payment of holiday food payment to families in receipt of Free School Meals; and supporting the St Ringan’s Hub and Community Pop-Ins, for purchase of items, and delivery of cooking and budgeting. These are being delivered by the council’s Anchor for Families and Community Learning and Development Teams.

Emma Macdonald, council leader, said: “This is a welcome contribution to households, as we enter the challenging winter months. As always, I encourage people to come forward to seek help and guidance, should they feel under pressure.”