Fair Work Action Plan 2022 and Anti-Racist Employment Strategy 2022: island communities impact assessment

4. Evidence and key issues

The 2011 Census recorded 93 inhabited island communities in Scotland, totalling a population of 103,700 (2% of Scotland's population).^[33] Fluctuations in population growth have been experienced since 1991-2011, with the 4% increase from 2001-2011 reversing the 3% decrease between 1991-2001.^[34] Island communities have an ageing population compared to Scotland as a whole. The median age of 45 sits above the national average of 41 and 21% of residents are aged 65+ compared to 17% in Scotland, while the islands population of under 16's decreased to 17% in 2011 from 20% in 2001. The gender divide is relatively even, with males composing a slightly higher proportion of 49.4% and women contributing 48.5%. Ethnic minority groups only accounted for 1% of island residents in 2011, a slight increase from 0.6% in 2001. The Census further revealed that the largest percentage (38%) of residents reported belonging to the 'Church of Scotland', while Roman Catholics represent 7% and Other Christians accounted for 12%.

Island communities are at risk of future depopulation after twice as many islands lost populations over the last 10 years as have gained. Orkney and Shetland's populations are projected to experience a 2.2% decline by 2041, while Comhairle nan Eilean Siar a decrease of 14%. Depopulation could increase the vulnerability of island communities in sustainable economy development through creating additional costs in market access and service provision.

Island employees disproportionately represent 'agriculture, forestry and fishing' workers (7%) and construction workers (11%) compared to the mainland and account for higher percentages of 'skilled trades occupations', at 21% compared to 13%. This presents a valuable labour market for the crucial sectors in Scotland's transition to a net zero economy. However, in coming years the small population of children and young people present key issues for the workforce and economy as they transition into the working-age population. Comhairle nan EIlean Siar is projected to experience a 20% decline in the working-age population from 2016 to 2041.

The high cost and low availability of public transport in rural areas and island communities is a significant challenge for young people and can act as a barrier to their educational choices and overall progress into employment.

Key issues for island communities:

• Island communities face future barriers to sustainable economic development due to depopulation and declining working-age populations, despite overrepresentation in key sectors for the just transition.
• Island communities are more vulnerable to fuel poverty than mainland Scotland in the transition to renewable energy.
• Access to educational opportunities and training are restricted by high cost and low availability public transport services in island communities.