Scotland News
Getty ImagesThe UK’s most remote inhabited island is looking for a new nurse to be its only medic.
Fair Isle is located halfway between the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland.
The island’s current nurse is leaving later this month.
NHS Shetland is now advertising for the permanent job to replace her, describing it as “a unique opportunity to become an integral part of island life”.
Fair Isle – which is home to about 50 people – is famed for its knitwear as well as its wildlife and bird observatory.
It is just three miles long (4.8km) and one-and-a-half miles wide.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the entire population, as well as any visiting tourists.
One of those current Fair Isle residents, Eileen Thomson, believes it could be a great move for someone.
“I think it could be the most amazing opportunity for the right kind of person coming to Fair Isle,” she told the ‘s Good Morning Scotland programme.
She said the outgoing nurse leaves later this week, and there would be cover in the interim period.
“It’s always a bit of a concern not having somebody here as we’re the remotest inhabited island in the country,” she said.
Getty ImagesShe said the new nurse would be looking after people with age ranges from less than a year old up to almost 90.
“You might be dealing with any kind of illness,” Eileen Thomson said. “There will be quieter times and there will be really busy times, it’s having someone who loves to have a bit of variety in their job.
“You would be the only person on the island as a medical professional,. We’re supported by a doctor’s surgery on the mainland of Shetland.”
The Coastguard rescue helicopter based in Sumburgh doubles up as the island’s ambulance, but the nurse is the one people go to for everything else.
“We’re lucky we’ve had some amazing nurses over the last few years, we always love to welcome new people into the community.”
Looking for a challenge
“The most beautiful little island,” is how she describes Fair Isle, which she said was well-known for nature and being one of the best places to spot wildlife.
“Of course we’re famous for our knitwear as well, so anyone with that kind of interest would find an amazing home here.
“But what we like to be known for is that we’re a really strong little community. We might be only 50 folk, but we are an incredibly strong, hard-working community. We’re a very sociable bunch as well.”
She said island life did not suit everyone and had challenges as well.
“We’re in the far north, the weather isn’t that great in the winter, transport isn’t that easy, and you do have to be a really confident clinician. You are the person looking after everything, you are the man on the ground so to speak.
“For someone who’s experienced, for someone who is looking for a challenge – but a wonderful challenge – I think it could really be the perfect role.”
Applications will close at the end of this month.
