Prevention. Community. Results.

Jersey’s healthcare system is under growing pressure. Costs are rising, demand is increasing, and too many families are facing the emotional, practical, and financial strain of long-term care. Jersey cannot afford to keep treating preventable problems only after they become crises.

Like many Islanders, I have seen first-hand how poor health, isolation, and rising care costs affect individuals and families. As our population ages, these pressures will only increase unless we take action now. We need a more practical and sustainable approach — one that focuses on prevention, stronger communities, and helping people stay healthier and more independent for longer.

I’m Karl Busch, and I’m standing for Senator because I believe Jersey can lead the way in creating a healthier, more connected, and more sustainable future.

My election mandate is clear: to champion prevention as a central pillar of government policy, support practical community-led initiatives that improve lives, and ensure public money is spent more effectively by reducing long-term pressure on healthcare and social services.

By investing in prevention and healthier ageing now, Jersey could reduce long-term healthcare costs by up to £4 million while improving quality of life for Islanders. Prevention is not only better for people — it is better value for taxpayers too.

Through Step55, I already work at the heart of the community turning these ideas into action. Step55 is a social enterprise built by the community for the community, providing activity classes and social events designed to keep people active, socially engaged, and well as they age.

From Yoga and Tai Chi to Line Dancing and Ballet, our programmes improve physical health, mental wellbeing, confidence, and social connection. From June, Step55 will provide 20 classes a week across the Island, supporting around 200 adults through regular activity and community engagement.

We are also developing new support for people living with dementia and brain injuries by helping Islanders share their skills, experiences, and passions with others in the community. I have already seen how regular activity and stronger social connection improve confidence, independence, and quality of life for older Islanders.

Keeping people active and engaged reduces isolation, supports wellbeing, and helps ease growing pressure on public services. Jersey already spends a significant proportion of public money on health and care, yet too many adults are still not active enough to maintain good health. If we fail to act now, the long-term cost of healthcare and social care will continue rising for future generations.

I bring experience not only from working directly within the community, but also from serving in local government in the UK. I understand how to deliver practical projects, secure investment, and work constructively to achieve measurable results. I will focus on practical delivery, responsible spending, and policies that create lasting benefits for Islanders.

My Priorities

Prevention before crisis

Stronger community-based care

Helping Islanders stay active and independent

Better value for taxpayers

Practical solutions that deliver results

Government works best when it listens to communities, focuses on practical action, and invests in people before problems become more serious and expensive.

Jersey deserves a healthcare system that keeps people well, supports communities, and delivers value for taxpayers. That is the future I want to help build.

Vote Karl Busch for Senator on 7 June