Almost a quarter of actions outlined in government disability strategy have seen “minimal or no change” over the last eight years, according to a new report.
Published this week, the Disability and Inclusion Strategy end of year report for 2023 and 2024 highlighted poor accessibility for appointments, weak transition support for young people entering adulthood, and ongoing accessibility barriers.
The report provided an update on the Government’s Disability Strategy, which was launched in May 2017.
In September 2024, stakeholders reviewing 30 government actions found that 74% of actions reflected positive progress while 24% showed “minimal or no change”.
Eight actions were earmarked for ongoing monitoring, whilst 22 were closed as completed.
The report pointed to “highly rated successes” including discounted bus passes for islanders with disabilities, youth inclusion projects, and accessibility improvements at ports and harbours.
But “poorly scoring” actions included the Preparing for Adulthood transition pathway, appointment accessibility for disabled islanders, and the accessibility of St Helier road crossings.
The Preparing for Adulthood pathway – which helps young disabled people move from education to adult services – was described as needing “significant attention”.
It was prioritised for 2025, alongside plans to improve special appointment access at public offices.
The report highlighted the Video Relay Service, which was launched by the Government in 2024 to provide on-demand British Sign Language interpretation.
“This service supports flexible and remote communication, enhances emergency access, and aligns with the island’s digital transformation agenda,” the report said.
“It reflects Jersey’s continued commitment to inclusive, accessible, and future-ready services.”
The ‘Embrace our Difference’ and ‘HiddenDisabilities’ Sunflower campaigns were continued across both years, and with adaptations and improvements were made at parks audited for sensory and physical accessibility.
Accessibility audits have been built into major infrastructure projects including the new hospital, Elizabeth Terminal and the Waterfront redevelopment, according to the report.
The Jersey Community Transport Scheme – a charitable initiative aimed at supporting islanders with limited mobility – secured vehicles and began driver recruitment in 2024.
Plans for the year ahead included broadening participation in strategy delivery to include young people and underrepresented voices; embedding accessibility into the design of services, systems, and structures; prioritising continuity and alignment across housing, education, health, and social care transitions; and supporting the building of digital tools that increase transparency, choice, and ease of access for islanders with disabilities.
Social Security Minister Lyndsay Feltham said: “The report highlights the progress we’ve made in embedding accessibility, showing lived experience, and strengthening inclusive practices across Government and the community.
“To everyone who has contributed, whether through policy, practice, or personal experience, thank you.”
The full report, including an easy read version, is available online.