Anti-Poverty Steering Group launch Islands Cost Crisis Fund

The Outer Hebrides Community Planning Partnership (OHCPP) has announced the availability of the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund (ICCEF).

An allocation of £253,000 has been provided by the Scottish Government to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for 2025-26.

As per previous allocations, the funding is being targeted to provide immediate help to individuals, families and communities who are struggling most, with a continuing strong focus on tackling child poverty.

The Western Isles continues to face high costs of living and is even more exposed than other parts of the country to the ongoing cost crisis. The public launch of the ICCEF follows on from a successful initiative undertaken earlier this year which resulted in more than £250,000 being awarded to support a range of initiatives.

This resulted in vouchers for fuel and food being issued directly to those in need, along with the operation of warm hub spaces, supporting people into work and a range of additional support for families and children grappling with the cost of living.

Funding is available to support initiatives that are in alignment with the OHCPP’s refreshed Anti-poverty Strategy 2024-2026 and the ICCEF priorities, contributing to:

• Relieving immediate effects of Cost-of-Living Crisis
• Increase income from Employment
• Maximise income from social security and benefits in kind
• Increase Accessibility
• Reducing Child poverty

Priority will be given to projects that more acutely reduce the impacts of the cost-of-living directly and/ or support reduction of child poverty.

Councillor Angus McCormack, Chair of the OHCPP Strategic Anti-Poverty Steering Group said:

“We are acutely aware of the disproportional impacts that the cost of living is having on our island residents, and whilst we hope this funding is able to provide some short-term support to those most vulnerable, we recognise that it does not go far enough and we will continue to work with Scottish Government on providing longer-term solutions so that poverty disparity is no longer evident in the Islands.”

How to Apply

Applications are welcome from all public, private, third sector and community organisations, including businesses.

The fund is now open, and applications can be made using the online application form until the closing date on Friday 14th November 2025.