Annual report on diversity and inclusion published

The annual report said more accessible parking had been installed across the island

The annual report about the progress of disability inclusion in Jersey has been published.

The government has shared its actions during 2023 and 2024 aimed at improving the wellbeing of people with disabilities and addressing the inequalities they face.

The report highlighted improved accessible parking and digital services, as well more opportunities in education and work. It also celebrated the inclusion campaign Embrace Our Difference which brought together more than 500 people and 55 groups and is set to take place again in December.

However, accessibility to appointments for disabled islanders for some services were not related highly.

The report highlighted accessibility embedded in new development plans, including the Government of Jersey offices, the hospital, the Elizabeth Terminal and Waterfront projects.

The report documented the success of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower campaign in training 250 government staff and providing webinars to businesses about inclusion and accessibility.

It highlighted the government's new video relay service which provides British Sign Language interpretation 24 hours a day for use in healthcare, education and other public services.

The report said 12 play parks had been audited for sensory and physical accessibility but initial improvements had only been completed at St Martin's village green.

Travel-wise, the Jersey Community Transport Scheme for people with limited mobility had secured vehicles and started to recruit drivers, while the Blue Badge mapping initiative had been completed in December, it said.

Minister for Social Security 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."

The report also recorded the stakeholder review of short-term action plans from the disability strategy in September which had rated the discounted bus passes and accessibility improvements at ports and harbours as successes.

Poorly-scored actions included appointment accessibility for disabled islanders and the St Helier road crossing.