blog.gov.je
As Assistant Minister with responsibility for Women’s Health, I am proud to share the progress Jersey is making in addressing the health needs of women and girls. Over the past year, we have been listening to the voices of local women and girls—through our Women’s Health and Wellbeing Survey and consultations with professionals, we’ve gained invaluable insights that are guiding our actions today and will help to shape our plans for the future.
It is often difficult to determine why rates of some cancers are higher than others. Generally, rates in Jersey are similar to those areas with similar demographic and ethnic patterns such as Guernsey and the South West. Where higher rates are seen, it is likely high alcohol consumption and smoking rates are an important underlying cause. As well as this, Jersey is a small island and Islanders are often outside, particularly in the summer months when UV is at its highest, which could contribute to the number of skin cancers we see diagnosed.
We know that health and wellbeing is more than just the absence of illness. It’s about living as well as we can, with a good support network, healthy eating, maintaining a healthy weight, good sleep, exercising and refraining from smoking, excessive alcohol use, and taking illicit drugs, as well as being able to access preventive care, and support at every stage of life. That’s why we’re taking meaningful steps right now to support women’s physical and mental health. Here’s a look at some of the recent actions we’ve taken and the positive changes on the horizon:
A dedicated ward offering care to women, together with a gynaecological services improvement plan:
In response to comments from Islanders, Rayner Ward, in Jersey General Hospital is scheduled to be refurbished and re-opened in 2025, with a view to improving the quality and experience of care for women who are undergoing gynaecological surgery and breast surgery. In addition, the Women’s and Children’s Care Group are actively developing a gynaecological improvement plan, which will lead to improvements from 2025 onwards.
Safe and Supportive Maternity Services: A newly refurbished maternity ward is now open, complete with dedicated midwives who specialise in mental health and infant care.
For parents facing the tragedy of loss, we have introduced bereavement leave and also developed new proposals to provide financial support which were supported by the States Assembly in early December.
Moving to an opt-out breast screening service: From early next year the breast screening service will move from an opt-in to an opt-out service, which will see women when turning 50 automatically invited to a screening appointment.
A Permanent Free Period Product Scheme: We’ve expanded and made the free period product scheme permanent, making essential products available to anyone that needs them in schools, community centres, and other public spaces.
Review of the Termination of Pregnancy Law:
The feedback report from the public consultation on Jersey’s Termination of Pregnancy Law was published in March this year. Findings from this consultation are helping shape a review of the current Law. Updated proposals will be subject to a further Public Consultation period, prior to a States Assembly debate in 2025.
Social Prescribing Platform for All: Our new social prescribing platform will connect women to activities that support mental and physical wellbeing—ranging from physical exercise classes to creative workshops.
Improving GP Accessibility: Recognising the barriers that costs can create, we’ve reduced GP visit fees, with free appointments now available for children and students as well.
Responding to Domestic Violence: We’re implementing the recommendations of the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce, including specialist training for health professionals and developing support pathways for those affected by abuse. This work is already underway and will continue into 2025.
These are just a few examples of the work we’re doing to ensure every woman and girl in Jersey has access to the resources and support she needs. We’re committed to continuous improvement, and input from Islanders will guide the way forward.
As we complete our Women’s Health Needs Assessment this year, we’ll announce a Statement of Intent that outlines our priorities and pledges to enhance the wellbeing of women and girls in Jersey.
Together, we are building a healthier, stronger community for all. Thank you for your continued engagement and feedback.
Deputy Andy Howell
Assistant Minister for Health and Social Services