Mobile phone signal, affordable housing, transport, training and decent jobs are important deciding factors for young people thinking about staying or leaving the Western Isles and the Highlands and Islands, according to a new study.
But tackling youth depopulation is "not always a specific area of focus, or indeed a prioritised issue," says the latest research for development agency, HIE.
Nothing appears to have changed much over employment issues -
The very poor level of internet and mobile phone service in the many parts of the Western Isles may be why 92% of young people feel that both digital and mobile connectivity.
According to the report, some 9% of youth in the Western Isles do not have access
to any broadband at all -
The report highlights a need to focus on dealing with the disadvantages which push young people to move away.
Around 37% of island youth indicated they want to work in the Western Isles.
However, only 25% think there are good opportunities for getting a job locally, according to the research.
In addition, the vast majority of island youth are not impressed with the range of job prospects at home.
Compared to other areas, fewer respondents from the Outer Hebrides said the islands have good opportunities for personal development.
There is a strong desire amongst school pupils to move away when they finish school – either temporarily or permanently.
The study -
Clear links were evident between community participation and sense of community spirit. Seventy eight per cent expressed pride in being associated with their community and 71% participate in their community.
The report pointed stressed: "In some locations there needs to be a real increase in the number of affordable homes available to young people, as well as affordable homes of the right size.
Transport availability and cost are also important.
The study stated: "The importance of RET for ferry travel is clear, with demonstrable
improvements in young persons’ perceptions of ferry costs in the Outer Hebrides compared
to non-
But the price of plane and train tickets are considered expensive, it added.
Bus services is another "issue which should be addressed,"including poor timetabling which is a "genuine frustration for young people."
Significant investments in "growth sectors...could be seen as lacking in consideration of the needs of and opportunities for young people," highlighted the study.
More than half of those who took part in the survey said they believe the region is a better place to live now than it was five years ago. A similar number think it will be better still in the next five years.
Carroll Buxton, HIE director for regional development, said the Highlands and Islands
is "increasingly well placed to counter out-
She said developing infrastructure, transport links and access to digital technology is underpinning initiatives to help make the region a more attractive option for young people to live, study and work.
Study reveals factors pushing young islanders to move away
11 August 2015