Islanders are being encouraged to take a stand for inclusion following the “stark verdict” of a report into the island’s provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Published in October, the Island SEND Review found that “too few disadvantaged or vulnerable” pupils are having their “full range of needs met”, and that “current leadership, organisation, systems, strategies, oversight and accountability arrangements in relation to inclusive education in Jersey are not sufficiently effective”.
Local charity Happy Heroes, which supports children with additional needs and their families, said the review’s conclusion was “unambiguous”.
“Jersey’s children with SEND deserve better and changing that culture requires everyone, not just government,” the charity added.
Happy Heroes pointed to findings in the report that highlighted minimal support for activities and clubs for children with additional needs, and schools routinely relying on charity support due to insufficient government provision.
As a result, the charity has launched ‘One Island. One Day.’, an island-wide initiative, set for Friday 15 May, urging schools, businesses and community groups to take part in a simple act of inclusion.
Happy Heroes founder Robyn Soley explained that many local families are forced to battle for basic inclusion.
“For many families, inclusion isn’t guaranteed – it’s something they have to fight for every day,” she said.
“‘One Island. One Day.’ is our way of showing that, as a community, we can choose differently.
“We can choose to include, to understand, and to stand alongside every child and family.”
Happy Heroes chair Tové de Chazal Gant said the campaign was “deeply personal” to her.
“My daughter Gray lives with a very rare genetic condition, is non-verbal and lives with additional needs, and her ability to participate in the world depends so much on the understanding and actions of those around her,” she explained.
The campaign has no set format, with groups encouraged to choose an activity that suits them – from sensory-friendly workplace adjustments to inclusive sports sessions or small acts of kindness – before sharing their involvement online and donating £2 per person.
GET INVOLVED…
- Register: Complete the registration form online.
- Take part your way: Choose an activity that suits your school, workplace or group.
- Share: Post a photo or video on social media using #HHOneIslandOneDay.
- Donate: £2 per person via the registration link, or contact info@happyheroes.je to fundraise as an organisation.