Budget simulator gives you the chance to balance the OIC books

With Orkney Islands Council expecting £9.5 million reduction in funding from the Scottish Government over the next three years, the local authority is challenging people across the county to try and balance the council’s books using a budget simulator.

The simulator gives people the chance to consider what the council’s spending priorities should be and to see how their choices would affect the many services the council provides.

OIC convener, Councillor Steven Heddle said: “In every home and business in Orkney, people have to manage a budget and make important spending decisions.

“It is the same for the council and the budget simulator gives everyone living and working in Orkney the chance to experience the challenges we face in balancing our books.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to try it out.”

Councillor Heddle added: “By showing us how you would choose to spend public money, and the services that are most important to you, we gain a clearer understanding of people’s priorities across our community.”

Full instructions for the budget simulator, including a how-to guide and video, are now available at www.orkney.gov.uk.