Small Island, Big Career: Making it Work on Papa Westray

Papa Westray, locally known as Papay, is one of the northernmost inhabited islands of the Orkney archipelago off the north coast of Scotland. With a population of around 90, it’s one of the smallest islands in the UK. But its remote location doesn’t mean career opportunities are limited. With some creative thinking and flexibility, Papay can be the launch pad for a fulfilling career.

Getting Around the Island

Transport is essential when living on a remote island like Papay. Bringing a car over on the ferry from mainland Orkney is an option - deals for finance cars in Glasgow and other major cities can make purchasing one more affordable. Even a small used car gives you the freedom to zip around the island on the single-track roads. Just be mindful of passing places when meeting oncoming vehicles! With no public transport having your own car is vital for accessing job opportunities and commute options.

Accessing Mainland Orkney

While Papay has a shop, a school, accommodation and more, mainland Orkney offers additional career and lifestyle options. The main connection is the Loganair Inter-Island plane that runs at least twice daily between Papay and the Orkney mainland. The 15-minute flight makes commuting possible, though timings may limit feasibility. With advanced planning, the plane and local ferries enable accessing secondary schooling, higher education, healthcare, shopping and entertainment on mainland Orkney from a Papay home base.

Remote Working

For island residents whose work doesn’t require being onsite, remote working unlocks new possibilities. Papay’s fibre broadband enables video calls, file transfers and more. Working remotely for a mainland or international employer can bring higher wages to the island. There is scope for running successful location-independent online businesses. With a little creativity, many career fields can be adapted to remote work. And you’ll have a beautiful island setting as your office!

Self-Employment

Opening your own local business on Papay is another avenue worth exploring. With so few businesses on the tiny island, needs still exist in areas like food, tourism, trades and more. The island’s reputation with visitors continues growing, so a tourist-facing business has potential. Or find a gap in the local market. Connecting with Business Gateway Orkney can help with market research, planning and accessing start-up funding and support.

Tourism Industry

Papay boasts intriguing history, abundant wildlife, coastal scenery, walking trails, and more for visitors to experience. Joining a cooperative like the Westray and Papa Westray Tourism Association helps market the island. There are opportunities for accommodation providers, food services, activity providers and those sharing Papay’s culture and heritage.

Fishing and Agriculture

Aquaculture, agriculture and fishing have long been mainstay island industries. Onshore, the island has rich pastureland ideal for raising livestock. Opportunities exist for value-added products and direct sales to visitors and export markets can boost viability.

Public Sector

Papa Westray’s micro-community still requires essential public services for health, education, infrastructure, governance and more. Jobs occasionally come up in areas like nursing, teaching, trades, and with Orkney Islands Council. There are also part-time opportunities in the fire service and transport support. Professional development opportunities also come up through training, specialised roles and leadership growth.

Making It Work

While Papa Westray is tiny, it’s certainly no career desert island. With an open mind, strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, exciting opportunities exist in this special place. It takes effort and imagination, but the rewards of island life make it worthwhile. So, if you’re up for a challenge, pack your bags for Papay! Just don't forget your raincoat.