Newsfeed

Client Website >
Newsfeed

What's On - October 2026

Our news feed gives information about upcoming events, training sessions and awareness days. If you know of an event that isn't listed below, please tell your Employment Coordinator so we can add this.

Training

We are compiling a series of short lunchtime training sessions delivered by JET staff to our clients.

We will be covering subjects such as Interview training, budgeting, sleep hygiene, resilience, telephone training, bus training, workplace etiquette. barista and others. If you feel that any of these subjects would be useful for you please speak to your EC when you see them.

What's on this October

Dean and Charlie

In August we remembered our JET colleague Dean Lowe and his lovely son Charlie, it has been two years since he was last in the office with us.

We still think about him and talk about him all the time. If you are coming for a meeting at Oakfield please do feel free to spend some time at our new memorial seating area there and enjoy the peace and flowers - he did love his garden and growing all sorts of floral and vegetable offerings for us at JET.

News from JET

JET Jaunt 2026

The JET Jaunt has happened again - Race to Rome (10th to 13th Sept) and it was a huge success, same as last year. The jaunters kept in touch via social media so we could see how they all got on! A lot of money has already been raised to help the work we do here at JET so many thanks to all who took part, supported and sponsored the race.

Community Events

Why not get involved in a local event to support a Jersey charity, or just have fun and meet new people.

Jersey Heritage have some great walking routes available to try on their website - including new Geowalks. These are accompanied guided walks around different areas of Jersey - a partnership between Jersey Heritage and Aspiring Jersey Island Geopark (AJIG). For more information and a link to book tickets please press here.

9 October - The National Trust of Jersey are holding their annual Black Butter Festival from 12-4pm at The Elms in St Mary. You are invited to attend and help make the legendary black butter that Jersey is so famous for!

9 October - The Shelter Trust are holding their Tinathon which collects tinned goods from workplaces/individuals around the Island to help feed those who need our help. You are invited to bring any in date tins to West Centre between 8am and 2.30pm to add to the pile! Hopefully they can do even better than last year!

14 October - The RNLI are holding a Lifeboat Awareness Day at Brook Street to inform people of the amazing work that they do every day. This is on from 10-4.30 and you are welcome to attend to find out more.

17-18 October - Jersey Heritage are holding their legendary Cider Making Festival at Hamptonne. Take part in celebrating our Island's heritage, taste the cider and watch the pressing of this year's apples.

It's not all about the cider – there's also live music, entertainers, creative activities, dance, fantastic food and even better company. There really is something for everyone, with lots to do, things to learn, people to meet and fun to be had! Please do keep the lanes of St Lawrence as vehicle-free as possible by car sharing, cycling, walking or catching the bus to the festival.

Jersey Museum have a new exhibition that opened in April, the Titanic room has information and the story about the 10 Jersey residents who set sale on the fated ship in April 1912. The exhibition is open until December.

Jersey Library is hosting some lego evenings for adults in their Adult Lego Club. It is held every Wednesday evening at the Town Library from 6-8 pm. The club is for adults only 18 yrs and over. There is no need to book and all lego is provided.

The library is also the venue for people who love word games, open to all over the age of 16, you can meet on the first Thursday of each month between 6-7pm to play great games such as Boggle and Dingbat among others. You can find the reading group meeting on the last Thursday of the month, time to talk about and share opinion on the book of the month.

Jersey Library is also currently running Creative Fridays

Every Friday from 10am to 12pm, get creative, have a coffee or tea and meet people. You need to be aged 16 and over. You don’t need to book. Needlecraft takes place every first Friday of the month and activities change in other weeks.

As well as these the library also has a program of therapy dogs being available for comfort and love! They are at Les Quennevais library every Saturday morning between 10.30 and 11.30, and in town they come in on different days, this month they are there on the 1st, 9th, 17th, 22nd and 31st of October. The times are still 10.30 to 11.30 am.

The library also has access to a free online program that you can use to improve digital skills, as a library member, you can learn how to use a computer or develop your skills using Learn My Way.

They also offer free extra support to anyone using Learn My Way at the Town Library every:

Tuesday 6pm to 7pm
Thursday 10am to 11am

Sessions take place in the computer room on the first floor. You can come to as many sessions as you need but you have to book in advance.

The library is currently running a competition in conjunction with Jersey Post, the Once Upon a Letter competition is open to everyone aged 5 and over, including adults.

Write a story as a letter and enter by 5pm on Monday 12 October 2026. It could be:

a message from a dragon
a postcard from the moon
a confession from an AI robot
a letter that changes someone’s life forever

If you can imagine it, write it.

You can post your entry in the competition postbox in the Children’s Library at the Town Library or send it to Jersey Post.

Find out more on Once Upon a Letter on Jersey Post.

You can find out more about the offerings at the library by following this link

Jersey Scrabble Club - The club meets every Tuesday evening from 7:00pm at Salvation Army Jersey, on Minden Street, St Helier.

The Autumn League (starting soon) is a great way to learn Scrabble or improve your game, with tips and help given if needed. Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned player, there's a place for you. New joiners are welcome to come along and simply enjoy the game—no need to join the league right away. Practice sessions are free, and the Handicap costs just £12 in total, including refreshments.

📞 Contact: Alex Mallinson

Tel: 07797 744228, Email: alexmallinson72@gmail.com

Mind Jersey hold a Women's group on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month from 5-7pm at the Drop in centre in town. Go for support and friendship with other like minded ladies!

Awareness Days

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our local ABC branch have been busy asking businesses and shops to take part in the 'Pink Window Parade' this month. Look out for beautiful displays featuring pink decorations to promote awareness of charities able to assist in case of illness, as well as giving advice about self checking for early diagnosis of disease. ABC (After Breast Cancer) provide emotional. financial and practical support to families and carers who have been touched by breast cancer. We are encouraged to support the 'Wear Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness' day in our families and workplaces on 23 October.

October is also the month when we support the 'Go Sober for October' campaign, we are encouraged to sign up on the Alcohol Change UK website, take part in the health challenge of not having any alcohol for the whole of October and raising awareness of the heatlh benefits that can bring.

Another health challenge in October is 'Stoptober' when we can sign up to pledge to stop smoking for the month. Statistics have shown that these 31 days can make a real difference to being able to quit completely if continued or tried again.

Whether you're quitting for your health, your family, or simply to keep more money in your pocket, Jersey's free Help2Quit service can help you every step of the way.

The programme includes:

An initial 60-minute appointment
11 weekly one-to-one support sessions
A free supply of stop smoking aids

Quitting smoking can improve your physical and mental wellbeing, help protect your loved ones from second-hand smoke, and give you more opportunities to enjoy island life.

To find out more about Help2Quit and the support available, visit www.gov.je/Help2Quit

5-11 October is Dyslexia Awareness Week. This year, Dyslexia Awareness Week will focus on dyslexic adults and their experiences of work and the workplace. They are looking at how recruitment, communication, workplace systems, management and access to adjustments can affect dyslexic employees. Dyslexia is often associated with school, reading and spelling, but it is lifelong and can affect many parts of working life. This may include completing applications, processing information, managing workloads, using workplace systems and progressing in a career. Dyslexic employees bring valuable skills, experience and different ways of thinking. But when workplaces are not designed with different needs in mind, unnecessary barriers can make it harder for people to show what they can do. The awareness week aims to build understanding, challenge barriers and encourage workplaces where dyslexic people can contribute, develop and thrive.

9-15 October is Baby Loss Awareness Week. This is an opportunity to bring people together as a community and give anyone touched by pregnancy and baby loss a safe and supportive space to share their experiences and feel that they are not alone. There is a fundraising and community event happening on 10th October called the 'Starlight Walk', giving people the opportunity to walk together in honour of those babies lost before or just after birth. The week ends with the 'Wave of Hope' night when we are encouraged to put a lit candle at 7pm in the window to show community involvement and support for all those who have been bereaved or affected by baby loss. Check out the Fort building shining pink and blue to mark this special week.

15 October - The Charity Roadshow, organised by the Parish of St Helier, will take place in the Assembly Room at the Town Hall, York Street, from 9.30 - 4.30. This free community event is a fantastic opportunity for Islanders, professionals and community representatives to learn more about the wide range of charities, support services and organisations available across the Island. Throughout the day, local organisations will give short presentations explaining who they are, the services they provide, and how people can access support and assistance. Presentations will be delivered by organisations including Brighter Futures, Macmillan Jersey, Highlands College Foundation, Enable, ABC Jersey, St Vincent De Paul, EYECAN, Long Term Care Team, Carers Jersey, JAYF, Samaritans of Jersey, Family Mediation Jersey, Jersey Cheshire Home and Jersey dDeaf Society. Whether you are looking for support for yourself, a family member, a friend or simply want to learn more about the valuable work being carried out in our community, please come along and hear directly from the charities and organisations that make a real difference to Islanders every day. For more information, please contact the Town Hall on 01534 811811 or email townhall@sthelier.je.

16 October - Enable Jersey invite you to Our Hidden Disabilities Group that brings together people with a variety of disabilities (specifically focusing on the acquired conditions , such as CFS/ME / Long Covid/ PoTs/Fibromyalgia) to connect, share experiences and have their voices heard. They provide a safe and supportive space where people can talk openly about the challenges they face, identify the issues they have in common, and work together to strive to find practical ways to make a difference and promote change. By coming together, sharing experiences and building a collective voice, the group aims to help shape a more understanding, inclusive and accessible Jersey for everyone.

Location: Main Hall, St. Paul's Centre, Dumaresq Street, St. Helier, JE2 3WP (Lift access to 1^st floor)

Time: 11.30am for cuppa + catch up - Main meeting from 12pm – 1pm

Theme: 'Building a collective Voice'. Facilitated by George and Diane from Enable.

Please RSVP to let us know if you are intending to come to this session on: info@enablejersey.org

12-18 October is Dyspraxia Awareness Week. This year, the theme is promoting the campaign "like a girl" to highlight the severe underdiagnosis and support for women and girls and the additional problems that arise from the common "like a girl" phrases used to diminish girls and ridicule boys for coordination struggles and differences. The week is aimed at raising awareness of Dyspraxia / DCD (Developmental Coordination Disorder)

20 October - Experts by Experience meeting (Enable)

Location: De Carteret House, 7 Castle Street, St Helier

Time: 1:30pm–2pm – Cuppa & chat / Main meeting from 2pm – 3pm

Theme: Experts by Experience. Tutors from Highlands College Social Work Course

What is an Expert by Experience?

Being an Expert by Experience means using your own lived experience of disability, health, social care or support services to help improve the experiences of others. You bring a perspective that professionals and organisations may not have, helping them understand what works well, what creates barriers and what needs to change. As an Expert by Experience, you may be involved in research, service design, training, focus groups, consultations or reviewing policies. Your voice can help challenge assumptions, reduce stigma and make services more inclusive, accessible and person-centred. Most importantly, you are not expected to be an expert because you have all the answers—you are valued because your lived experience is knowledge, and your contribution can help make sure that decisions affecting those with disabilities are informed by the people who experience them.

If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to reach out to Enable on 01534 485740 or info@enablejersey.org.

General Information

ESSH have decided to offer a quiet hour every Thursday commencing at their site at Union Street. This will start on 1st October, from 3-4pm and then every Thursday after that. The lights will be slightly dimmed, music turned down and volume reduced on the tannoy announcements.

Jersey Childcare Funding Scheme has expanded to now allow families using Accredited Nannies to access financial support for 2 to 3-year-olds from 1 September 2026, following approval by the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning. Until now, funding has only been available for children attending registered childcare settings or registered childminders. By extending eligibility to Accredited Nannies, the Government also expects to increase the number of funded childcare places available across the Island, making better use of existing childcare capacity and supporting its wider commitment to improving access to affordable childcare.

Application processes will be updated during September, with applications due to open in October. More information will be published once the application form is live. Families using Accredited Nannies will be able to backdate applications to 1 September 2026.

Parents and carers can find further information and access the application form once it is live at Funding for Early Childhood Education and Childcare.

Royal Court and States Chamber Tours

A unique opportunity to tour Jersey’s historical Royal Court and States Chamber. See behind the scenes of the Royal Court, the principal Court of Justice, and the States Chamber: where Jersey’s elected parliament meet to debate and create laws. During your visit you will hear all about the history and inner workings of the Royal Court and States Chamber from an accredited Blue Badge Guide.

Each tour is two hours long and meets outside the Royal Court entrance at 10am. Tickets (£4-7.50) available on eventbrite.co.uk.

Remaining 2026 tour dates:

24 October

Credit cards for Jersey residents. The Government of Jersey is taking action to help improve Islanders' access to financial products, including credit cards. To achieve this - and reduce the administrative burden that credit providers face when processing applications - Islanders' personal data will be securely shared with UK credit reference agencies (CRAs) from 30 July 2026. The information automatically provided to the CRAs (Experian and Equifax) will be Jersey residents' name, residential address, and date of birth. Banks and other providers will request basic information from the CRAs when considering applications from Jersey residents, as they currently do with UK applications. However, the sharing of this information is not compulsory, and Islanders are able to opt out. Islanders should be aware that if they choose to opt out, this may impact their ability to access certain financial products in the future.

Jersey residents who do not want their information shared with the CRAs can opt out by contacting Employment, Social Security and Housing Department (ESSH) by email or telephone before 30 July 2026:

Email: customerservice@gov.je (with subject header “OPT OUT")

Provide your full name, address and date of birth

Telephone 01534 444444 [option 6]

Islanders will still be able to opt out after 30 July 2026, and ESSH will stop sharing their data with the CRAs. The CRAs will retain the information shared prior to opting out, but will not receive any fresh details. Islanders with queries about personal data held by the CRAs can contact Experian and Equifax directly. Islanders who are happy to have their data shared do not need to take any action.

Further information is available via Credit cards for Jersey residents.

Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are moving from Liberté House to Bermuda House on Green Street, St Helier from Monday 6 July.  There will be minimal disruption to services with the main part of the move happening on the weekend of 4/5 July. On Monday 6 July, Neurodevelopmental assessment appointments will be moved to Enid Quenault for one day only and those affected will be notified directly. Services will continue as normal from Tuesday 7 July.  The building has been adapted specifically to meet CAMHS’ clinical and operational needs and to create a calm, welcoming, and therapeutic environment.

Bermuda House is in the centre of St Helier, next to Green Street carpark, and is easy to reach by public transport. The building includes 17 spacious, light, and airy clinical rooms, designed to support high quality, confidential care for children and young people.  Its design and location reflect feedback from children and young people, particularly the importance of more discreet access to services. This was a key consideration in creating a space where people feel comfortable, respected, and safe when attending appointments.  Staff have also been closely involved in shaping the new environment to ensure it meets both clinical and operational needs. Additionally, Inspectors from both the Jersey Care Commission and the Children’s Commissioner have viewed the new building and contributed to helping shape the environment. This collaborative input has helped create a space that supports day to day practice, engagement, and wellbeing, while remaining focused on the needs of children, young people, and families. 

Pension Plus scheme changes

As of the 30 March Pensioners with a tax liability of up to £1000 will be able to apply for the Pension Plus scheme. Please log on to Apply for the Pension Plus scheme for further information.

To help meet the costs of dental, optical and chiropody treatment, you may be eligible for Pension Plus. Funding is available if you:

You've reached pension age at the time of application
Are receiving a Jersey Old Age Pension or have ‘entitled’ status
You (and your partner if applicable) do not pay Jersey income tax or have a total combined annual tax liability of up to £1,000.
Have no more than £64,000 in household assets (excluding the value of the family home)

To find out more, contact the Pensions and Care Team at Employment, Social Security and Housing:

gov.je/pensionplus

Email. pensionplus@gov.je

Tel. +44 (0) 1534 444444

PO Box 55, Union Street, St Helier, JE4 8PE

Important travel information reminder to those who hold dual nationality

British and Irish citizens who hold dual nationality must be able to prove that they are a British or Irish citizen when they enter the Common Travel Area (UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man) – the only practical way to do this is by showing a British or Irish passport.

Since 25 February 2026, anyone who is not a British or Irish citizen will require either a Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorities (ETA) to enter the Common Travel Area.

You Do Not need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if you are a British or Irish citizen, hold a valid UK Visa, or have permission to live, work, or study in the UK and Channel Islands (including anyone with settled or pre-settled status). Other exemptions include British Overseas Territory Citizens, British Nationals (Overseas), or those with automatic right to abode.

ETA is already a requirement for those transiting through the UK to visit Jersey.

The Crown Dependencies anticipate that ETA for direct travel to the Islands will be introduced from April 2026.

More info here: https://www.gov.uk/dual-citizenship

Update on Carers review

The Minister for Social Security, Deputy Lyndsay Feltham, has announced changes to services and support for carers and people with care needs. This follows a detailed review of Jersey’s benefit system, current services and support, as well as discussions with carers’ organisations.

The Minister has committed to:

Enabling Long-Term Care, LTC, payments to be made directly to individuals or families, so they have the flexibility and choice to manage their own finances
Changing how care packages are assessed so parts of the package can be paid directly to the individual or to an informal carer on their behalf, to help meet specific costs for the person receiving the care
Ensuring carers know a weekly sum can be set aside from a care package to provide a respite budget that will cover the cost of providing care while they take a complete break from time to time
A dedicated advisor to provide carers with individual advice and direct them to support services that are available to them from 23 February
A new dedicated page on the Government of Jersey website to bring together all information on support for carers

The full findings of the review also considered calls for pensioner carers to be allowed to claim the full Home Carers’ Allowance, HCA, and a pension at the same time.

Under Jersey’s social security system, Islanders can only claim one working age contributory benefit at a time from the contributions they have paid and then receive an old-age pension when they reach pension age. Pension payments are based on the number of contributions an Islander has made through their working life. Carers who do not have a full contribution record when they reach pension age can choose to have their pension payments topped up to reach the level of the Home Carers’ Allowance.

The Support for Unpaid Carers and People with Care Needs: Findings Report found that changing the system to enable Islanders to claim both the full HCA benefit and a full pension on top of that would require a significant increase in funding. Such a change would not benefit carers of working age, would not target financial support where it is most needed, and is not the type of support that most carers have been asking for. The review found that whilst there is already a good level of financial support available, there is more that can be done in terms of practical support and the resources available to informal carers.

Jersey Zoo tickets for those on Income Support

Jersey Zoo want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy a fantastic day out at Jersey Zoo, reconnect with nature, learn about Durrell and support us in our mission of saving species from extinction. These tickets offer zoo entry at a reduced rate of £6 per person to those in receipt of Income Support, for a maximum of 6 people per household. The aim of the Income Support ticket is to help those who may find cost or other challenges to be a barrier to visiting Jersey Zoo.To be eligible, you must be in receipt of Income Support and be able to show evidence of this and photographic ID on arrival to the zoo. We understand there may be sensitivities around individual circumstances, so this offer is initially available to book online only at https://buy2.myonlinebooking.co.uk/jerseyzoo/buy.aspx?tid=54.

Booking your visit

Upon arrival, a member of our admissions team will assist with your entry. To validate your booking, please bring evidence of your Income Support and photographic ID with you.

More information can be found on this link income Support tickets | Durrell

Health and Care Jersey launch new volunteering programme

Health and Care Jersey are pleased to announce the launch of a new volunteering programme. This initiative offers Islanders the opportunity to contribute their time, skills, and compassion to support patients, families and visitors. No previous medical experience is required, just a caring heart and commitment to make a difference. Volunteers will receive training before starting and will also be given ongoing support to ensure they feel confident in their roles.

Volunteers will not only make a difference in the lives of others but also gain personal growth, new skills, and make meaningful connections.

Applications are now open. For more information or to apply, please visit www.gov.je/VolunteerHCJ

The Government’s proposed Budget 2026–29 includes help to support Islanders where it’s needed the most, by investing in the future of our Island. This includes investing in families, pensioners and healthcare.

These investments aim to support families in Jersey with:

✅ Free nursery places for 2–3 year olds.

✅ Increasing investment in early years to almost £7 million. Saving families up to £6,000 a year.

✅ A new secondary school at Mont à l’Abbé.

✅ £16 million St Helier Youth Centre development.

✅ Access to healthy hot meal at school every day.

✅ £12.6 million towards new and improved residential care facilities.

✅ £7.6m for Children’s Services.

✅ Back-to-School Bonus to help with the cost of school uniforms and supplies.

Includes expanding Pension Plus so that more pensioners can get help with their health costs, helping pensioners stay active and remain independent. This includes:

✅ GP fees through the Health Access Scheme

✅ Dental check-ups and treatment.

✅ Optical and chiropody services.

Making sure Islanders get quality care now, while keeping our health system sustainable for the future by:

✅ Committing £15.6 million to meet Jersey’s growing healthcare needs.

✅ Investing an extra £4 million a year to help Islanders stay fit, healthy and well.

✅ Investing in digital healthcare to early diagnosis and new facilities.

✅ Develop a single patient record ensuring joined up care.

Read more about the proposed Budget here: https://bit.ly/4nTptZV

Jersey's benefit system

Not sure what benefits you’re entitled to? Whether you’re working, raising a family, or planning for retirement, Jersey’s benefits system is designed to support you and your family. Learn how they work together and what support might be available to you. Contact the departments below to get all the advice you need.

Employment, Social Security & Housing can guide you through the support available:

Visit: Union Street office, weekdays 8:30am–5pm

Check wait times: gov.je/ESSHwaitingtime

Book online: gov.je/ESSH

Call: 01534 444444 (Mon–Fri, 8:30am–5pm)

Use online services: gov.je/ESSH

Mental Health Information

Crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition. Supporting the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important – it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities. That’s why it is essential for everyone, including government officials, health and social care providers, school staff and community groups to come together. By working hand in hand, we can ensure the most vulnerable have access to the support they need while protecting the well-being of everyone. In Jersey we have the responsibility of looking after each other as well as being aware of our own mental health. If you are struggling there are agencies available to help,

The Samaritans are there to listen 24 hours a day,

116 123 free from any phone

0330 094 5717 local call charges apply

If you are in crisis you can call Adult Mental Health 445290. This line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They do sometimes receive a large number of calls. If you can't wait on the phone, you can leave a message and they will get back to you as soon as possible. In a crisis, they aim to see you within 4 hours, where this is assessed to be clinically indicated. Otherwise, they will arrange for you to be seen as soon as possible depending on your needs. However If you or someone you know are in immediate danger of serious harm and you need immediate medical help or the help of the police call 999. Give as much information as possible to the operator and be as clear as you can when giving your address or location, and telephone number.

If you're already receiving support from one of the community mental health teams, you should contact the team and your care co-ordinator or the team's duty worker.

You can call them 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday:

Older Adults, Community Mental Health Team on +44 (0) 1534 444830
Working age adults, Community Mental Health Team on +44 (0) 1534 445270

If you need support outside of these hours call +44 (0) 1534 445290.

A new scheme is now in place to assist people who need help with their skills, careers opportunities and choices. It is named 'Get Ahead'

Get Ahead assists individuals who are in receipt of Income Support in enhancing their careers and skills. Participation in this service is optional and will not impact their Income Support benefits.

Get Ahead can help individuals to:

develop and progress their career
develop their skills and confidence
earn more money

You can take part if you’re already working your required hours or are not required to work under the income support eligibility rules. The Get Ahead team can help individuals with funding towards training, development, and qualifications, career advice and guidance, job searching and applications, CV and cover letters, money management, childcare advice and options, Health and wellbeing and planning for the future.

Eligibility for the service:

1. Receiving Income Support with 5 years residency and

2. Already working required hours determined by the income support rules

3. Early parent returners (parent with children under 3 years old)

You can email the team on getahead@gov.je or call +44 (0) 1534 447589. Please also see Career and skills help if you're on Income Support (Get Ahead) for more information and links.

For individuals not receiving Income Support

You can receive help with your career or education, by contacting Skills Jersey.

The team at Skills Jersey provides guidance, services and resources to support students, Islanders and local businesses with going into further education, establishing career paths, starting university and exploring apprenticeship opportunities.

Find more information on skills, careers and higher education.

Your Voice Matters

Macmillan Jersey, whose purpose is to provide cancer support to anyone affected by cancer in Jersey, are asking for your help. By sharing your experiences and suggestions, you'll be directly contributing to the enhancement of services and income strategies ensuring they meet the needs of everyone in our community. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey - your input will make a real difference.

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=cgWUcAUpHUWx7otX5gR8r7SzAiIeJttFn5QzOQu-3qRUMEQxSDJVVzhJVlJCWkVTR05OTVZOMEY0Ni4u

Elemental Launch – Social Prescribing in Jersey

Connect Me: Connecting Our Communities is proud to launch Elemental, which is an online social prescribing solution designed for GP’s and other frontline healthcare professionals so that people with social, emotional, or practical needs are empowered to engage in local programmes and services to which improve their health and wellbeing. In due course, islanders will be able to self-refer themselves to get help, but for the time being referrals will mostly be done via the GP’s. This is a natural flow of progression considering that Connect Me is all about connecting islanders by providing opportunities for them to take part in cultural and physical activities, often that have been out of reach for them due to finances, mobility or isolation.

It is well-proven that joining in social activities and meeting other people greatly improves peoples physical, mental and social well-being therefore Elemental is a fantastic way of delivering help and support to our islanders.

Newly appointed Link Workers will pick up referrals through the Elemental system and will have the opportunity to listen, support and guide people to a new hobby, sport or cultural activity – and some people may even pick up a pastime that they have not been able to do in years – but most importantly, they will be informed and directed to join one of the many activities happening in Jersey that hopefully, in turn, will improve their life.

elementalsoftware.site/jersey/

Check out the link above to the Jersey website which is also a comprehensive directory of activities & services in Jersey, it is not complete yet, but worth a look and if there is an activity that you know is happening in Jersey but is not listed, please contact Jo Goodhall j.goodhall@gov.je – they want as many activities, services and programmes to be listed as possible.

Dementia Jersey Carers Packs

Are you a family carer for someone with dementia? Check out Dementia Jersey’s new FREE Carers Support Pack which contains carefully curated information and advice based on the charity’s years of experience supporting people with dementia and their families and friends. This pack includes guides, tools, and information to help you navigate the caregiving journey.

In the pack, you'll find information on:

Dementia Jersey's services
The Dementia Pathway
‘This is Me’ booklet
Aid to Locate booklet
The Sunflower Lanyard Scheme
Memory Assessment Leaflet
Long Term Care Scheme

Discover valuable resources and support for family carers with Dementia Jersey's Carers Pack! Visit www.dementia.je/carerspack to find out more.

Improvements made to Long-Term Care Scheme communications

The Minister for Social Security, Deputy Elaine Millar, is delighted to announce the completion of a review and enhancements to the Long-Term Care (LTC) Scheme communications, to make them more straightforward and easier to understand. Delivering these enhancements is a key priority of the Minister’s 2023 Delivery Plan. The new communications have been developed after discussions with all stakeholders, including carers and people who currently participate in the LTC scheme.

The workstream to review and improve the communications material, has delivered:

Updated scheme literature: There is a new Information Pack made up of three separate, newly designed, shorter leaflets to provide clear explanations of each Long-Term Care Scheme scenario and a simple ‘roadmap’ which provides an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide for someone as they apply for the Long-Term Care Scheme. Information is available in larger font, on request.
New webpages: To further enhance how information is presented, new webpages have been launched. They offer new content and interactive menus, ensuring that Islanders can access the details they need, quickly and easily. This is available to view. An animated explainer video and EasyRead resources will also be added to the webpages.

Mind Jersey

Mind Jersey have started several new groups in their centres in town. They are generally open for anyone who needs support, friendship or a chat! There are lots of options, from Man Club to a DVD club, Art groups to a walking group. The best way to find out what is happening is on their facebook page, follow this link. Their new hub is called 'Friends of Mine' and can be found on Seale Street not far from the Town Hall. You can drop in to see them and get support, free tea/coffee and a chat. They are open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday - give it a try! If you need to find out more you can call their admin line 07829 933929

Macmillan Jersey are offering some new wellbeing fitness classes to try out. If you have been supporting a loved one with cancer, or have recently lost someone to cancer, maybe you've finished cancer treatment and trying to feel more like yourself again, and make some healthy changes to your lifestyle.

You might like to try Macmillan Jersey's new Boxing Better wellbeing fitness class with The Rock Fitness.

Not only is exercise essential for physical and mental health - but these classes can be empowering, cathartic and a great way to relieve stress and channel your energy into something positive through a difficult time.

Shopmobility

Shopmobility offers a highly subsidised scheme aimed mainly, but not exclusively, at individuals on Income Support who do not meet the criteria for Health supplied equipment. The scheme is designed for those who wish to boost their mobility and enhance their quality of life, thus avoiding the need to consider entering a care home or indeed suffering periods of time in hospital and therefore remaining for longer in their own domestic setting to the benefit of their wellbeing. Proof of need to participate in the scheme is required from either a doctor, including individual GPs, the Occupational or Physiotherapy Departments of Health and Community Services.

The cost to the individual in participating in the scheme is set at £35 per calendar month, easily met from the mobility element of Income Support, with this charge covering insurance, batteries (replacement if needed) and on-going equipment maintenance, along with delivery and collection as needed.

The scooters provided will remain the property of Shopmobility and will be collected when no longer required. In the interests of safety full training is offered by Shopmobility so insurance cover is extended to the scheme and the Charity reserves absolutely the right to refuse applications as deemed appropriate if there are concerns over safe usage at its discretion.

Applications and advice regarding the scheme are readily available not only to potential users but to their family and friends via direct contact at Shopmobility in the Lower Ground Floor of Sand Street Car Park or by phone on 739672.

Alternatively prospective clients can email Mr Edward Trevor, MBE ( Hon Chairman) using edward@shopmobility.org.je who will respond as necessary.

Video Magnifier Project

EYECAN prides itself on its responsiveness to needs in the community. This year EYECAN launched a video magnifier project, which involves the phased distribution of long-term loan video magnifiers to care venues and libraries. The devices support individuals with sight loss to access books, documents, undertake precision tasks such as colouring and needlework, and to revisit photographs, which can prompt reminiscence.

Eyecan is pleased to announce that a video magnifier is now available for the public to use at the Library in St Helier. It is situated on the ground floor in an accessible place to the left of the front doors. A staff member should be on hand to show people how to use it.

The ClearView C is a desktop video magnifier for people with low vision. It is designed for people who need magnification to read, write or do their hobbies. The size of the text can be greatly increased, and the image can be enhanced to provide clearer contrast.

The Government’s Parental Support Payment has launched and is open for applications.

You may be eligible to apply if you meet all the following criteria:

You have lived in Jersey for less than five years
You have “registered” status
You have children under the age of 18
Your gross household income last year was no more than £36,000 for a single person and £48,000 for a couple

Payments are £250 for one child and £500 for two or more children.

To apply for this money please speak to your EC or call 444444 to speak to someone in Customer and Local Services who will be able to help you.

Gov.je has a website for those with a learning disability, transforming how they can access information - it is now live here

The site, which has been reviewed by service users, improves how information is presented to make sure it is in an accessible and easy to understand format. The project was undertaken as Islanders with learning disabilities struggled with complex information on gov.je and needed help to understand it.

The Adult Learning Disability Team has worked with the Government of Jersey’s Web Services Team in consultation with service users to create the site which delivers “easy read” content in HTML format. It presents information as a combination of images and clear, understandable text. Check it out on the link above and see if its a useful service for you.

Don't put off your cervical screening

We have recently had Cervical Screening Awareness Week, women and people with a cervix aged 25-64 are being encouraged to opt-in to the free cervical screening programme.

Cervical screening detects Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infection passed between people through skin-to-skin and sexual contact which is the main cause of cervical cancer. If HPV is detected the screening sample will then be checked for any underlying abnormalities of the cervical cells.

Women and people with a cervix are reminded that they need to opt-in to the programme when they turn 25 by contacting their GP.

It is important that Islanders attend their screenings regularly (every three years for those aged 25-50, and every five years for those aged 50-64) as HPV can lie dormant for many years. Read more in Don’t put off your cervical screening (gov.je)

Coop Quiet Hour - In conjunction with Autism Jersey and the National Autistic Society, Coop Grande Marche St Peter and St Helier are extending their Quiet Hour on Mondays from 3 - 5pm and Saturdays 5-7pm Read more here

Concessionary bus pass scheme to include free travel for companions

Carers or companions of eligible Islanders in the AvanchiAccess scheme will be able to travel on the bus for free, following an extension of the scheme by the Infrastructure, Housing and Environment (IHE) department.

The existing AvanchiAccess scheme provides unlimited free travel for Islanders who have a long-term disability preventing them from driving. The AvanchiAccess+ scheme includes free travel for carers or companions who need to assist those Islanders who cannot travel alone on the bus some or all of the time.

Eligible Islanders who are part of the existing scheme or new customers that want to apply for the AvanchiAccess+ scheme should pick up an application form from Liberation Station, parish halls, doctors' surgeries and community organisations around the Island to apply. The pass will then be ready to use from 1 October.

Islanders must meet the eligibility criteria which includes having a long-term disability that prevents them from driving and the need to have a companion assist them on the bus some or all of the time.

For the full criteria visit www.gov.je/buses or www.libertybus.je.

Free screening checks to prevent sight loss

Islanders with diabetes are being urged to come forward to check if they are at risk of losing their sight to one of the leading – but largely preventable – causes of blindness in the developed world.

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the top five causes of blindness and sight loss in both the working age population and developed world. There are about 4,500 Islanders with diabetes and the team carry out about 5,000 free screening checks, which involves taking a variety of 2D and 3D images of the back of the eye (retina) to look for diabetic changes, a year.

Improvements to the service, which began last year, means that the waiting list for retinal screening has been cleared and the team is now urging anyone who feels they should be screened to contact them by calling 01534 444590. The clinics are free and can be offered in Spanish, Portuguese and Polish. Please check out the information here

The Salvation Army are continuing helping those in need this year.

Their year-round support is available at their Minden Place premises, call Salvation Army HQ on 735472, the office is open 9-1 Monday to Friday for more details of their help.

Food bank – the Salvation Army food bank will be running for those in short-term financial crisis. Food parcels include toiletries and baby items such as nappies/wipes/formula. For longer term support, i.e. more than 6 weeks, please consider referring to the other foodbanks on the island.
Voucher support will continue to be available for those in immediate financial hardship. This includes utility top-ups (Jersey Electric, heating oil, and Jersey Gas) and supermarket vouchers.
Community cafe is open offering free soup daily.

Pastoral support – the Salvation Army are always happy to listen and chat with people and offer pastoral support and/or signposting as appropriate, in their friendly community cafe.

There are more food banks in operation at the moment on Island, The Grace Trust offer food to those in need from their base in Lewis Street, they are happy to help and can be contacted to talk through difficulties. Please follow this link for their website.

SVP (Saint Vincent de Paul Society) also provides food bank access, they are open on Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings. They are based in an office at the side of St Thomas Church in St Helier. For more information please follow this link

If you need any further help or information about any of the above please talk to your Employment Coordinator, we can assist with referrals or point you in the right direction.