Almost a quarter of the actions outlined in the government’s Disability Strategy have shown “minimal or no change” since being launched eight years ago.
The 2023-2024 End of Year progress report, published earlier this week, set outs how 30 strategic actions – first agreed in May 2017 – have been developed.
In its most recent review, which took place in September 2024, 74% of actions were assessed as having made positive progress, while 24% were categorised as “minimal or no change”.
Of the 30 original actions, eight remain open for ongoing monitoring, and 22 have been closed as completed.
Appointment accessibility for disabled Islanders and the accessibility of St Helier road crossings were among the “poorly scoring” actions, while the Preparing for Adulthood Pathway – designed to help young people move from education into adult services -was also identified as requiring “significant attention”.
The report earmarked this as a priority for 2025, as well as plans to improve special appointment access at public offices.
Despite the gaps identified in the report, several “highly rated successes” were acknowledged since 2023, including the introduction of discounted disabled bus passes, youth inclusion projects and accessibility improvements at the Island’s ports and harbours.
While the report does highlight some successes, it also reveals persistent gaps in accessibility, service delivery, and inclusion efforts.
The report said: “This service supports flexible and remote communication, enhances emergency access, and aligns with the island’s digital transformation agenda.”
“It reflects Jersey’s continued commitment to inclusive, accessible, and future-ready services.”
Broadening participation in strategy delivery to include young people and under-represented voices was among the gaps identified and was included in the plans for 2025.
Other priorities included embedding accessibility into the design of services, systems, and structures; prioritising continuity and alignment across housing, education, health, and social care transitions; 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.”
