Disability Strategy launched

26 May 2017

A Disability Strategy for Jersey is being launched on 26 May 2017 which will promote equality for disabled Islanders and work to ensure that people living with disability can enjoy a good quality of life.

Almost 14,000 people in Jersey are disabled (using the UK Equality Act definition) and with an ageing population, these numbers are set to increase.

Following extensive research and consultation, a strategy has been developed in partnership between government, voluntary and community organisations, and the business community.

It sets out five key priorities for people with disabilities to:

1. Have support to communicate and access information;
2. Have greater access to the Island;
3. Have good health and wellbeing;
4. Have access to education, employment and enriching activities;
5. Have equal rights and experience equality.

Assistant Chief Minister, Senator Paul Routier MBE, said: “I am delighted to launch the Disability Strategy. It will truly make a difference to the lives of Islanders.

“Disability affects us all. Whether it is personally, a family member, friend or work colleague – all of our lives will be touched by disability or illness at some point.
 
“This strategy is the start, but change will not happen overnight – it is important that the Government of Jersey, as the Island’s largest employer and service provider, leads by example. However, it is also important to remember that government cannot and should not act alone. This is a strategy for the Island and must be owned by the Island.”

The strategy will be delivered in partnership through the Disability Strategy Delivery Group. An action plan has been drawn up for each priority and the Delivery Group will need to develop a detailed delivery plan within the first year of the strategy’s publication.

It is hoped that the implementation of the strategy will support a change in attitudes and enable people living with disability in Jersey to enjoy a good quality of life. This will work alongside the introduction of disability legislation in 2018.

An accessible and large print version of the strategy is available on this website.

Disability Strategy