We’re kicking off SIF Island Voices with Jean MacLellan OBE FRSA — a former senior civil servant and social work professional, originally from North Uist and now proudly based on Islay. Jean’s career spans frontline practice, national policy development and academic leadership, with senior roles in the Scottish Government and Autism Network Scotland. Closer to home, she’s deeply involved in island life through initiatives like Islay Link Club, the Islay Book Festival and the ThisIsIslay podcast. At the heart of it all is her passion for community wellbeing and making sure national policy truly works for island and rural communities.
In this episode, Jean reflects on life on Islay, her career journey, family life, and the realities of island living — exploring both the challenges and the opportunities that come with it.
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