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  • Data Protection Policy – Public Consultation

    St Helena Government (SHG) has today published its draft Data Protection Policy 2024. This policy aims to safeguard the privacy of individuals and ensure responsible handling of personal data by organisations.

    Members of the public are invited to review the draft data protection policy available online at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/DataProtectionPolicyv3.2.0_FINAL-DRAFT-FOR-CONSULTATION-AUG24-references-added.pdf and in hard copies at the Public Library and Post and Customer Services Centre.

    We invite the public to participate fully in the consultation process. Opportunities for feedback will be provided through public meetings, stakeholder engagement sessions, and by written submission. Your input is essential in developing a comprehensive and effective policy.

    Public meetings to discuss the draft Data Protection Policy 2024 will be held the week commencing 9 September from 19:30 at the following venues:

    LocationDate and time
    Jamestown Community CentreTuesday 10 September 2024
    Half Tree Hollow Community CentreThursday 12 September 2024
    Kingshurst Community CentreTuesday 24 September 2024
    Harford Community CentreThursday 26 September 2024

    The closing date for written feedback is Friday 4 October 2024.

    Any questions or views on the draft policy may be submitted to Alex Adams via email through alex@jujudigital.com.

    #StHelena #DataProtection #AwarenessCampaign

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  • Data Protection Policy Update

    The St Helena Government (SHG) recently held public information meetings to discuss a new Data Protection policy. This policy aims to safeguard the privacy of individuals and ensure responsible data handling by organisations.

    SHG would like to acknowledge and thank those members of the public who attended these sessions. While attendance was limited, the discussions provided valuable insights into community concerns about data privacy. This has been helpful in finalising the draft Data Protection policy, which has been approved by Executive Council for public consultation.

    Presentations and discussions revealed a need for most organisations to draft and/or update appropriate data protection policies. These adjustments will likely necessitate substantial alterations to existing working practices. A primary concern raised during the public meetings in May highlighted the potential impact of this legislation on smaller organisations, particularly charities. There are a significant number of charitable organisations that do extremely valuable work on St Helena but they are run and supported by volunteers with limited resources. To prevent compliance challenges from overwhelming these organisations, the project will focus on providing tailored support and resources.

    Some good points raised during the discussion at Harford Community Centre included:

    1. Whilst a data subject (an individual whose data an organisation holds) has the right to request a copy of the data an organisation holds on them, there will be certain (specific) circumstances where an organisation may legitimately withhold or restrict the level of information returned.  Examples of this might be information that law enforcement organisations hold in pursuit of an investigation, confidential references relating to an employee or student, certain medical or health related records, if the release of the information would likely cause harm to physical or mental health of the individual or another person.
    2. The need for robust third-party supplier contracts to be in place with privacy factored in.  Some organisations appoint a third-party to process data on their behalf or if they need to pass on information to a third-party to deliver their service, for example an insurance broker passing details to the underwriter for a policy of insurance to be written or endorsed. Under these circumstances it will be vital to have solid contracts in place with clauses related to data protection and privacy.
    3. It will be vital that the role of the Data Protection Officer (DPO) is well understood by business owners and organisation leaders. The DPO is a role that some larger organisations will have to appoint, and they will be focused on ensuring compliance with data protection law. Their responsibilities include advising the organisation on its data protection obligations; monitoring compliance; and acting as a point of contact for data subjects and the regulator. The DPO also provides guidance on data protection impact assessments and helps to manage data breaches.

    Since the first round of public information meetings, Alex Adams of Juju Digital Ltd, has been meeting with organisation leaders in the private, voluntary and NGO sectors to further make them aware of the project and bring the discussion to the wider community. One of the remits of the project to commence toward the latter part of this calendar year, is to provide support to the community via educational workshops.

    Members of the public are invited to review the draft data protection policy available online at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DataProtectionPolicyv3.2.0_CONSULTATION-DRAFT-AUG24.pdf and in hard copies at the Public Library and Post and Customer Services Centre. Your input is crucial in finalising this policy.

    Further information about the draft Data Protection policy, including details of upcoming public meetings in September, will be shared through social media, radio, and other media platforms.

    For organisations and businesses seeking to learn more about data protection and their potential obligations under data protection law, please contact Alex Adams via email through alex@jujudigital.com.

    #StHelena #DataProtection #AwarenessCampaign

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  • Kiera Francis Achieves First Class Honours in Biochemistry with Biology

    Kiera Francis Achieves First Class Honours in Biochemistry with Biology

    Keira Francis of Sandy Bay, has graduated with First Class Honours in Biochemistry with Biology from Keele University. Keira graduated on Tuesday 9 July 2024.

    In addition to her first-class degree, Keira was also awarded the Royal Society of Biology Accreditation Top Project Award, the Biochemical Society Undergraduate Recognition Award, and the Oxford University Achievement in Biosciences Award. These accolades recognise Keira’s exceptional performance in her studies.

    During her studies, Keira explored a wide range of modules and participated in conducting groundbreaking research. A particular highlight was a three-month research project in Malaysia, where Keira developed aptamers with potential applications in typhoid fever diagnosis.

    Keira commented on her achievement:

    “Following the completion of my undergraduate degree, I was delighted to have achieved a First Class Honours, and am immensely honoured to be the recipient of three awards.”

    “Overall, it has been a valuable, enlightening and rewarding experience. Although the course was challenging and tremendously difficult at times, I’m glad that I had persevered to the very end. After all, it’s an incredible feeling, knowing that I have achieved what I had set out to do when I first embarked on this journey.”

    “I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to everyone who has supported, encouraged and believed in me throughout my academic venture, including my lecturers, supervisors, colleagues, friends and family.”

    “Additionally, I would like to thank those involved in the scholarship process, who granted me the opportunity to pursue this lifelong ambition of mine.”

    Assistant Director of Schools, Kerry Lawrence, also commented:

    “Warmest congratulations are extended to Keira on her outstanding and well-deserved achievements from all in the Education, Skills and Employment Portfolio.  We are extremely pleased for and very proud of Keira, her dedication and impressive work ethic has been instrumental in her success.”

    “Well done Keira! You are an inspiration to all, good luck and best wishes with your future endeavours.”

    SHG
    20 August 2024

  • Community Mental Health Team To Launch Mental Health Survey

    The Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) is launching a mental health survey to better understand the needs and experiences of the community. The survey will launch on Wednesday 21 August 2024.

    Mental health problems can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, stigma often prevents people from seeking help. This survey aims to assess the prevalence of mental health stigma on St Helena and identify potential barriers to accessing support.

    To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the survey, participants will be selected through a random sampling process using the phone book. We understand that this may result in calls from our survey team. Please be assured that your participation is entirely voluntary and your responses will remain anonymous. The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete and can be conducted over the phone or in person.

    The information gathered from this survey will be invaluable in improving our mental health services, identifying resource needs, and stimulating open dialogue about mental health on St Helena. By comparing our results with similar surveys conducted in other countries and UK Overseas Territories, we can benchmark our progress and implement best practices.

    We encourage all residents to participate in this important survey. Your input will help us create a more supportive environment for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

    For more information about the survey or the CMHT please contact Mental Health Team Lead Ian Rummery, by telephone on 22593 or via email through Ian.Rummery@sainthelena.gov.sh.

    #StHelena #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSurvey

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  • Arrival of MV Karoline

    The MV Karoline is scheduled to arrive at James Bay at 06:00 on Wednesday 14 August 2024. Weather permitting, the vessel will dock alongside Rupert’s Jetty and cargo operations will commence as soon as practicable.

    The public are therefore advised that Jamestown Port and the whole of lower Rupert’s including the beach area, will be closed from 06:00 on Wednesday 14 August, until all cargo operations are completed.

    These areas will be strictly prohibited and access will be limited to only those who have made prior arrangements with St Helena Port Control.

    Boat owners and operators are advised that mooring on the ‘span’ mooring rope near the landing steps at the Jamestown Wharf is prohibited for the duration of cargo operations.

    The public are thanked in advance for their continued support.

  • Economic Development Investment Programme

    Micro Project 2024/25 – New Bridge

    The Programme Management Office (PMO) is pleased to advise that repairs to New Bridge has been approved for implementation under the UK funded Economic Development Investment Programme (EDIP) – Micro Project Budget 2024/25, in partnership with the FCDO. 

    To understand the extent of the works required to repair New Bridge, a small hand dug trial pit will be dug on the side of the main road. Subject to weather conditions and contractor availability, these works will take place on Friday 9 August 2024.

    The road will not be closed when the trial pit is being dug, but members of the public should be vigilant when entering this area. 

    The public will be kept updated as the project progresses.

    Note to Editor

    In 2019, Executive Council gave approval for an annual budget of £150,000 under the Economic Development Investment Programme for ‘micro-projects’, or those projects that can be implemented relatively quickly with a low total cost (i.e. £50,000 or less). This budget aims to support projects that may not have easily quantifiable benefits, but are essential for strategic economic growth. Such initiatives include boosting tourism, fostering a green economy, enhancing future infrastructure, and mitigating potential legal risks to SHG.

  • Chief Minister Welcomes New Minister For Overseas Territories

    Chief Minister Julie Thomas has extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office with responsibility for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty MP.

    In a letter sent today, the Chief Minister expressed enthusiasm for Minister Doughty’s appointment, given his prior experience and interest in the region.

    The letter emphasised the importance of a strong partnership between St Helena and the UK government, built on shared values of self-governance and mutual respect. Chief Minister Thomas extended an invitation for the Minister to visit St Helena and prioritised support for Overseas Territories reliant on financial assistance.

    The full letter can be read on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Letter-Chief-Minister-Minister-Doughty-070824.pdf

    #StHelena #ChiefMinister #BritishOverseasTerritories

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  • Shy Road Closure

    The Highways Authority has given approval for Shy Road to be closed on Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 August 2024 from 08:30 to 15:30 to enable the Road Section to carry out essential maintenance.

    During this closure only emergency services will be granted and access signage will be in place.

    The public are thanked in advance for their continued support.

  • SHG Service Delivery Survey

    The St Helena Government (SHG) initiated a ‘live’ service delivery survey in 2021 to determine how satisfied customers were with the services SHG provided. Customers can score their happiness with 24 services offered by SHG using this easy-to-use survey and are invited to submit comments on how they believe a particular service might be improved. These services include waste management, communication and road maintenance among others.

    The respective portfolios offering the services receive a summary of the survey findings and provide feedback. The portfolios will take into account any possible steps that can be made to enhance the services provided.

    Infographics detailing the comments and feedback received regarding the services offered by the Environment, Natural Resources and Planning Portfolio and Health and Social Care Portfolio were the latest to be released since the start of the survey. To relaunch and remind the public of this ongoing survey, we have attached an infographic detailing some of the most recent comments on each of the portfolios in SHG as well as the measures that were implemented.

    The Service Delivery Survey can be found on the SHG Website, in the Public Library, and also in the Post and Customer Services Centre in Jamestown. Alternatively, the survey can be completed online via the following link: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/SHG-Services.

    Hard copies of completed surveys can be sent to Information and Research Support Officer, Linda Benjamin, at the Castle, Jamestown, or via emailthrough linda.benjamin@sainthelena.gov.sh.

    Infographic

    #StHelena #SHGServiceDeliverySurvey #CustomerFeedback

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  • ANRD Veterinary Service

    Surgery Times

    The ANRD Veterinary Services hold an open surgery for consultations between 08:30 and 10:00 every morning Monday to Friday. This is an open surgery, requiring no appointments, therefore please be advised you may have to wait.

    Monthly parasite treatment clinics take place on the last Friday of each month at the Grand Parade, Jamestown, from 12:00 to 14:00. Flea and worm treatments are supplied.

    Contact Telephone Numbers

    Please contact our reception by telephone on 24724. Office hours are from 08:30 to 16:00.

    In cases of accidents and emergency during out of hours only, please phone 26162 and your call will be transferred to the Veterinary Section Team member who is on call.

    We request that clients use the above contact numbers and not the private numbers of the veterinary team when needing assistance, especially out of hours.

    The Veterinary Section Team would like to thank the public for their continued support.