NFU Scotland has strengthened its support within Orkney and Shetland by introducing two new regional policy advisors for the islands.
Kerry Omand and Lorna Scott started in their positions covering Orkney and Shetland earlier this week.
Previously, Orkney and Shetland were covered by regional manager Ian Wilson, who also has the remit for Highlands. This change will allow Ian to fully focus on the Highlands and representing members.
The aim of the new appointments is to increase the work with the local branches, improve communications and stakeholder engagement. An important part of this is having people on the ground who know and understand the issues facing islanders and who may have experienced these themselves.
Both Kerry and Lorna grew up on family farms. Alongside working part-time for NFU Scotland, Kerry will continue to support her parents with their beef farm on South Ronaldsay.
Lorna who previously worked for the National Trust for Scotland now runs her family farm on Shetland after moving home last August.
Teresa Dougall, director of regions for NFU Scotland said: “The introduction of two new posts through NFU Scotland is a positive and welcoming step forward for members. With Lorna and Kerry joining the Regional Management team, we are strengthening our work for members across Scotland.
We will be looking to increase engagement across the branches whilst improving our engagement with stakeholders and communications across the membership.
“I know Lorna and Kerry are keen to get started and looking forward to meeting with members to help understand and tackle issues.”
