Can you help fine-tune Jersey's disability strategy?

Sunday 15 January 2017

The States want Islanders’ views on a draft Disability Strategy it’s drawn up.

The document is the result of almost two years’ work and has involved numerous meetings with key organisations and individuals. It’s also drawn heavily on a survey that was sent to more than 10,000 households.

Despite the extensive consultation those working on the strategy are still keen to fine-tune it.

The strategy focuses on five priority areas:

Supporting communication and access to information

Having greater access to the Island

Good Health and wellbeing

Access to education, employment and enriching activities

Equal rights and equality.

According to Assistant Chief Minister, Senator Paul Routier: “Disabled Islanders say that there are many positive things about living in Jersey. However, they also have a lower sense of wellbeing that the rest of the population. For example, the average life satisfaction rating for non-disabled Islanders is 8.4 out of 10, compared to only 6.8 for disabled Islanders.”

Three consultation events are being staged at St Paul’s Centre: 12:15-13:15 Friday 20 January, 19:00-20:00 Tuesday 24 January, 13:00-14:00 Thursday 16 February.

Alongside the Disability Strategy the finishing touches are also being put to disability discrimination legislation which should come into force next year.