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What's On - September 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 September

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 is happening again - Race to Rome (10th to 13th Sept) and we are hoping for a huge success, same as last year. The jaunters will be off on the boat early in the morning of Thursday 10th September and we will keep in touch via social media to see how they all get on! A lot of money has already been raised to help the work we do here at JET so many thanks to all who are taking part, supporting and sponsoring the race. Good luck!

Squirrel Scurry 2026

We wanted to say a massive thank you to all who came, listened to the music, had their faces painted and scurried around the harbour with us on the 25th April. We had a lot of fun and will announce the final sponsorship money raised when we know the total figure. Thank you!!

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.

Back to school! Also back to traffic although the roadworks leading up to our offices at Oakfield are now all completed, so its easier to find us again.

5 September - Nature Festival. Join Nature Base, collaborating with local storytellers, artists, creatives and nature practitioners, for a special Mini Nature Festival at Coronation Park Nature Area.

Wander through the Nature Area at your own pace and discover activities and experiences throughout the session, including:

Nature art, graffiti & creative activities led by local artists
Drumming circles with CAMHS
Cambodian nature dance, drumming & street dance
Stories with local author Penny Byrne + book giveaway
Traditional children’s stories and folklore from different cultures
Jèrriais stories, songs, puppets & legends
Romanian puppet storytelling
Forest therapy & sensory nature connection
Bushcraft, butterflies & nature activities
Sand stories and play
Nature printing, journalling & creative play
Story Walk with Every Child Our Future
…and lots more to discover!

Choose a session:
Morning: 10am–12.30pm
Afternoon: 1pm–3.30pm

FREE – tickets required and numbers are limited. Book at www.naturebase.je/booking

7-13 September - Know Your Numbers week. We are being challenged and encouraged to check our blood pressure as part of the Know Your Numbers campaign, which highlights the importance of early detection and prevention of cardiovascular disease. High blood pressure affects almost one in five Islanders and often has no obvious symptoms. If left untreated, it can increase the risk of serious conditions including heart disease, stroke, heart attack and kidney disease. As part of the campaign, Islanders can visit participating community pharmacies between 7 and 13 September for a free blood pressure check. The campaign encourages Islanders to make small, sustainable lifestyle changes that can help reduce blood pressure, including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, drinking alcohol in moderation and stopping smoking. The message is simple: know your numbers and take an important step towards protecting your long-term health.

For more information and a full list of participating pharmacies, visit gov.je/BloodPressure

10 September - Battle of Britain Air display takes over the skies above St Aubin's Bay. Be aware of road closures and potential traffic jams, and also that the schools are off for the day so that all can enjoy the sound of the Red Arrows in the sky! All starts at 1pm.

18-27 September - Jersey Festival of Words returns, bringing ten days of literary inspiration, creativity, and cultural celebration to venues across the Island. As Jersey’s annual literary festival, it offers opportunities for people of all ages and interests to engage with authors, poets, performers, historians and storytellers through a diverse programme of talks, discussions, workshops, and performances. Events take place at a range of venues including Jersey Library, Jersey Museum, Jersey Arts Centre, Victoria Tavern, Millennium Park and other locations across the Island.

With a mixture of free and ticketed events, including author talks, poetry, workshops, family activities and cultural discussions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. To find out the full programme, visit the website at www.jerseyfestivalofwords.org

19-26 September is Jersey's Democracy Week for 2026.
For the first time, the week will feature three Democracy Cafés around the Island. A Democracy Café is an organised but informal event that facilitates conversation, enabling people to explore topical issues that matter to them, in a respectful, inclusive way:

Pastries and Politics: Monday 21 September, at The Hub, Windward House, from 8am to 9.30am. This morning event is aimed at businesses and those working in St. Helier.
Join the Conversation is at the Salvation Army café in Minden Street, St. Helier on Tuesday 22 September from 10am-11.30am. All welcome.
Democracy on the Move: Friday 25 September, a guided circular walk from the Jersey Pearl Café in St. Ouen, followed by a cuppa and chat in the café. The 45-minute walk will start at 10am from Jersey Pearl and culminate at the café on the Jersey Pearl site until 11.30am. All welcome.

Islanders can also sign up for free Tours:

Visit the States Chamber: Tuesday 22 and Thursday 24 September from 12-1pm. Both tours will include a question-and-answer session with States Members.
Political History walking tour around St. Helier: 10am-11.30am on Thursday 24 September, and the same time on Saturday 26 September. Led by Blue Badge Guides. These are a great opportunity to learn about the heroes, battles and riots that have shaped Jersey’s political past.
Enemies of Liberty: Two Rivals Who Died for Democracy: 5.30pm-7.30pm Friday 25 September, Royal Square, St. Helier. A ‘Tall Tales’ tour with Toby Clyde-Smith: Join Tall Tales for a special two-hour Democracy Week walking tour through the heart of St Helier, exploring the extraordinary lives of two political giants who helped shape the freedoms we value today. Sign up via Island Ticket Hut. A charge is applicable.
Blue Badge guided Royal Court and States Chamber Tour: Saturday 19 September. Please note there is a small fee for this 2-hour event to cover the professional guides.

Tickets for the Democracy Café, tours and walks are available via the States Greffe Eventbrite page.

Several Pop-up stands are organised at various locations and times. They offer Islanders the chance to come along and chat informally to States Members:

Saturday 19 September sees the first at the Jersey Farmers Market at Le Tacheron Farm, Trinity, which is open from 10am to 2pm
Monday 21 September at the Town Library from 11am-1pm
Wednesday 22 September in the Central Market from 12-2pm

25 September - Macmillan Coffee Morning, the famous chance to host or attend a coffee morning for Macmillan returns this September. Organise your friends, family, colleagues, get some cakes in and send money to Macmillan! They are such a great charity who support people with a cancer/terminal diagnosis and provide such a great comfort and practical help to those in need

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 6th, 9th, 15th and 21st of September. 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 the Summer Reading Challenge for all young people aged 5-11, it is open from 27 June to 19 September. Your young person will need to read 6 books over that time, pick up a challenge pack from the library to register, and come in to talk about your book with the library staff. They will receive sticker prizes, and a swim pass after the 3rd book read. On the completion of the challenge they will get a certificate and medal.

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

Organic September - we are challenged to see if we can eat organically in this month, to enjoy and reap the benefits of eating food that has been farmed without the use of chemicals and fertiliser. Give it a go!

Move More September - is a national campaign focused on improving wellbeing through everyday movement. It is supported by local activity providers, charities, NHS Trusts, and community organisations across the UK. The initiative uses the return-to-school period as a “fresh start” moment to help people rebuild active routines after summer. What can we do to help ourselves use this month as motivation to get out there and move a little more while we still have decent weather outside!

22 September is the start of Recycle Week - why not see what you can recycle instead of buying new each week, our recycling centre at Acorn is open from 10-3.30 every day and full of ideas to use second hand goods instead of new. We also provide a great metal and plastic recycling project where people learn how to create and process old and useless items into new products or parts that are able to be sold on. Doing our bit for a greener world!!

16-25 September is Great British Beach Clean week, we can help our Island stay as beautiful as it is by taking part in cleaning up any rubbish left behind on our fabulous beaches. Small actions by all add up to a big difference!

General Information

This summer has been very hot! Please ensure you look after yourselves sensibly in the heat of the day, wearing appropriate clothing, drinking plenty of water and staying out of the direct sunlight when you can. Lots of suncream too to prevent your skin being damaged. For some really good tips about keeping your house cool and making the most of the cooler hours please follow this link to this useful NHS site.

Changes to Tax Assessments for couples. Since 1 January 2026, everyone in Jersey has been taxed independently. This means everyone is responsible for their own tax and will normally submit their own tax return. If you are married or in a civil partnership you may be able to continue joint filing. You will be taxed independently, but you will complete one tax return as a couple.To continue filing a joint tax return, you must opt in by 30 September.

To continue filing together, you will need to:

Have filed one tax return as a married couple or civil partnership this year
Not be separated or divorced
Opt in together, with both partners agreeing to the arrangement
Agree to share your tax information with each other and allow both partners to discuss tax matters with Revenue Jersey
Nominate one partner to take responsibility for submitting the tax return

For further information: Independent Taxation

Community helpdesk events from 9.30am-4pm at:

17 September St Martin's Public Hall
24 September St Clement’s Parish Hall

You can also pick up a paper form from your local parish hall or the Government of Jersey building on Union Street.

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:

19 September

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.