One of the Trust’s aims is to halt the population decline on the three islands. Key to this is to provide affordable social housing, which can retain younger people and families on the islands, as well as attracting new workers and families to bolster the community.

The Trust currently has two potential schemes to create some social housing:

• The Old Manse.  Potential to convert the upstairs into two 2-bed flats.  If project funding is successful, then available from early 2025
• Two 2-bed bungalows on Johnstone Road.  The Trust is seeking funding for this project, if it is successful then available end of 2025

OTHER OPTIONS

Orkney Housing Association have social properties on Rousay and sometimes have availability, and potential tenants can register interest.

Private buyers are encouraged to search on Rightmove or make contact with local estate agents:

• Lows – Kirkwall
• Karen Allen – Kirkwall
• Harcus – Kirkwall
• D & H Kirkwall & Stromness