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Category: News

  • Overseas Medical Referral Update

    Recently, the Health and Social Care Portfolio (HSC) issued a letter updating their patients identified for overseas medical referral of the status of their referral. Unfortunately, the contents of this letter have been misunderstood by some, and therefore, miscommunicated in the public domain. With this in mind the HSC aims to address these recent concerns and provide an update on overseas medical referrals.

    As per normal procedure, the HSC prioritises referrals based on clinical need and maintains a waiting list for all overseas referrals. We strive to keep patients informed of their position on this list.

    While we advocate for increased funding to address the specific healthcare needs of St Helena’s population, the HSC has openly communicated the current budgetary limitations throughout all HSC services, to include that of overseas medical referrals due to increasing complexities. This information has been presented to the Public Accounts Committee and is continually discussed in public forums.

    We recognise that every patient has unique circumstances. Patients with concerns regarding their diagnoses or ongoing healthcare needs are encouraged to contact the appointments line to schedule a consultation with the Senior Medical Officer or Chief Medical Officer.

    As referenced within the letter distributed to patients, the HSC reiterates its willingness to assist in cases where patients are in a position to self-fund, by facilitating the necessary arrangements for overseas medical treatment. Those in a position to self-fund by opting for private treatment allow the HSC to direct limited resources towards those who cannot afford the cost of overseas care.

    The HSC remains committed to providing the best possible healthcare services within the available resources.

    We encourage patients with questions regarding overseas medical referrals to contact the HSC appointments line at 22321.

    #StHelena #HealthandSocialCare #OverseasMedicalReferrals #AltogetherHealthier

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  • Rock Fall Warning: Safety Risk For Fishermen

    Recent rock falls have been identified on the eastern side of St Helena, specifically in the area known as “Spot”, situated between Duck Yard Point and Buoy’s Hole. These rock falls have created a potential hazard for fishermen frequenting this popular fishing location, with the rock fall zone located more towards the Buoy’s Hole side.

    The St Helena Sea Rescue Service urges all fishermen to be aware of the risk of falling rocks, especially in areas with known unstable cliffs or slopes.

    Safety Tips for Fishermen:

    • Pay close attention to the cliffs and shoreline while fishing. Look for signs of recent rock falls, loose rocks, and cracks in the rock face.
    • If you see any signs of instability, choose a different fishing location.
    • Before heading out, inform a friend or family member about your fishing trip. Tell them your intended location and estimated return time. Alternatively, inform the Joint Emergency Services Control Room when leaving and once you have returned home.
    • If possible, bring a VHF radio for emergencies. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and has good reception in the area (be aware of dead zones).

    For more information or in the case of an emergency please contact the Joint Emergency Services Control Room at the following numbers:

    Emergency: 999

    Office: +290 22626

    VHF Radio Channel 16: Saint Helena Radio

    Photos

  • St Helena Research Institute to Host First Online Conference on St Helena

    The St Helena Research Institute (SHRI), established in 2019, is proud to announce its first global research conference, ‘St Helena: a unique environment, a rich tapestry’, in collaboration with the University of Manchester. This landmark online event will be held on Wednesday 20 November 2024, with a possible extension to Thursday 21 November depending on interest.

    The conference aims to unite researchers and stakeholders from St Helena itself, those who have conducted research on or around the island remotely, and anyone interested in the island’s fascinating history and environment. This free event offers an exceptional opportunity to network, explore research impact, and discuss its application for St Helena’s sustainable development.

    The conference will delve into four key themes, each featuring a keynote speaker and short presentations (15-20 minutes):

    • Natural Sciences: Explore St Helena’s biodiversity, its fight against invasive species and climate change, and the crucial issues of energy, food, and water security.
    • Humanities and Social Sciences: Uncover the island’s colonial history, its role in the slave trade, and its contemporary social and economic challenges, including population decline, digital integration, and educational opportunities.
    • Medical Science: Discuss the health of St Helena’s aging population, the potential of telemedicine, and research into the well-being of small, rural communities.
    • Cross-disciplinary Approaches: We encourage submissions that bridge themes, fostering collaboration for St Helena’s future.

    The conference seeks to identify research needs and gaps, culminating in a preliminary list of research priorities for St Helena. Each theme session and the overall conference will conclude with a plenary discussion focused on this crucial agenda.

    Interested presenters are invited to submit a 250-word abstract by Monday 16 September 2024, using the form at https://forms.gle/7HPc3h3Hk7fzF1bA7. Presentations should be approximately 15 minutes in length.

    For more information please contact Rebecca Cairns-Wicks by email through rebecca.cairns-wicks@sainthelena.edu.sh or Drew Whitworth via email through drew.whitworth@manchester.ac.uk or by telephone on +44 7501 963630.

    About the St Helena Research Institute

    SHRI promotes high-quality, ethical, and equitable research that benefits St Helena. It aims to make research and knowledge accessible to further the island’s development.

    About the University of Manchester

    Celebrating its bicentenary in 2024, the University of Manchester is a leading research institution committed to social responsibility and advancing sustainable development goals worldwide.

    #StHelena #StHelenaResearchInstitute #UniversityofManchester #Conference

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  • St Helena Education System Under Review: Exploring Options For A Sustainable Future

    The Education, Skills and Employment (ESE) Portfolio is undertaking a comprehensive review of the island’s primary education system. This review aims to identify the most effective and sustainable path forward, considering the current challenges and future needs of St Helena’s children.

    Declining Population and Staff Shortages Drive Review

    The current school structure faces difficulties due to a declining primary school-age population (302 in June 2024 compared to 391 in the 2017 census). Staff shortages within the ESE further complicate these challenges.

    Exploring Options for a Sustainable Future

    The review will consider various options, including:

    • Maintaining the existing school structure
    • Consolidating into a single school
    • Creating a primary two-school system

    Focus on Future-Proofing Education

    The review’s primary goal is to “future-proof” St Helena’s education system, factoring in the island’s economic development, current resources, and Immigration Policy. This includes:

    • Enhancing educational attainment and learning outcomes for all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
    • Reviewing the curriculum and delivery methods to ensure sustainability, resilience, and the ability to accommodate future growth.
    • Improving teaching and learning standards.

    Your Voice Matters: Public Consultation

    We understand the importance of a strong education system for our children and the island’s future. We will be holding public consultations to ensure everyone has the opportunity to share their thoughts and perspectives on the future of primary education in St Helena. We will consider these valuable contributions as we develop our recommendations.

    Working Together for a Sustainable Future

    A working group has been established to analyse various options and provide this analysis to stakeholders. Their recommendations, including priority areas and potential actions regarding primary education provision for September 2025, will be presented to Executive Council later this year.

    Our Commitment: Growth and Stability

    The primary aim is to ensure a solution that meets the educational needs of children, promotes stability, allows for efficient resource utilization, and accommodates potential growth in future years, considering St Helena’s Immigration Policy and initiatives to retain existing staff and attract new residents, including St Helenians returning to the island.

    Note to Editors

    St Helena’s primary school-age population has seen a significant decrease and is set to further decline in future years. Relating this to a global scale, the number of children in primary classrooms has been dropping from a peak of 4.7 million five years ago. EPI forecasts show it will drop to 4.06 million in 2028-29.  Steps are being taken to encourage the growth of our population, but we do not foresee this being rapid; therefore a steady growth is being considered in our steps in future-proofing Education. 

    #StHelena #EducationReview

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  • International Paramedics Day 2024: Honouring a Legacy of Care

    Today, 8 July 2024, marks International Paramedics Day, a global observance recognising the invaluable contributions of paramedics worldwide. This date coincides with the birthday of Dominique-Jean Larrey, known as the ‘father of modern ambulance services’, symbolising the profession’s rich history and ongoing dedication.

    Organised by the College of Paramedics in the UK and supported by paramedic organisations globally, this year’s theme, “The Difference We Make,” highlights the transformative impact of paramedics in diverse healthcare settings.

    Paramedicine, a dynamic and rapidly growing profession, encompasses a broad spectrum of roles and responsibilities, from critical emergencies to compassionate patient care in quieter moments. In St Helena, since the introduction of paramedics in 2022, the ambulance service has expanded significantly, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing emergency care.

    Michael Gaga-Hale, Emergency Operations Manager, expressed his gratitude:

    “I extend heartfelt thanks to our dedicated team for their unwavering commitment to the St Helena community. I also acknowledge the sacrifices made by their families and former colleagues, who have all contributed to our service. It’s an honour to work alongside individuals like Patronella Mittens-Henry, Martin Andrews, T-Jay Coleman, Carl Thomas, Rae Dickie-Clark, Emma-Lee Cochran and many others.”

    To celebrate International Paramedics Day 2024, a special gathering was held at the hospital, bringing together current and former ambulance service members in recognition of their exceptional service and dedication.

    Photos

    #StHelena #HealthCare #TheDifferenceWeMake #IPD2024 #InternationalParamedics #StHelenaAmbulanceService

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  • Fisheries Workshop Postponed

    Due to limited registered interest for the Marine and Fisheries Conservation Section’s Fisheries Workshop, which was due to be held 10 July at Anne’s Place, this event has now been postponed.

    The Marine and Fisheries Conservation are looking to assess how stakeholder engagement for the Marine Protected Area is undertaken within the community. If you have any ideas on how best we can engage with you, please call +290 25966 or email Laura.Duncan@sainthelena.gov.sh.

    We would like to extend our gratitude to our stakeholders for their continued support. We aim to provide fisheries information in a new format, so please stay tuned to local media channels for updates.

  • Road Closure – Junction Near St Paul’s Cathedral to Scotland Roundabout

    The Highways Authority has given approval to close the road from the junction near St Paul’s Cathedral to Scotland roundabout from Monday 8 July to Wednesday 31 July 2024 from 09:00 to 15:00.

    The purpose of the closure is to enable the Roads Section to continue slurry works on this route with the Minimac paver.

    Please note that this road will only be closed if weather conditions are favourable to carry out these works. If the weather is not favourable, the road will remain open as normal.

    Signage will be in place and the diversion will be via Sunny Side Road. Only emergency services and returning residents within this route will be granted access, delays will be expected.

    The Roads Section would like to thank the public in advance for their continued understanding and cooperation.

  • Governor Issues Writ Of Election For 2024 Bye-Election

    Acting Governor Tasha Harris has today issued the Writ of Election for the upcoming bye-election to be held on Wednesday, 14 August 2024.

    The Writ confirms the last day and time for receiving nominations to elect a new member to fill the vacant seat on Legislative Council.

    The last day and time for receiving nominations is 12:00 on Wednesday, 31 July 2024, and all nominations should be delivered within this time to the Returning Officer Mrs Carol Henry, at the Castle, Jamestown.

    Nomination forms are available on the Government website here: https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/ or can be obtained from The Castle reception, the Customer Service Centre and the Public Library.

    If more than one nomination is received, a poll will be take on Wednesday, 14 August, at the following polling stations:

    • Blue Hill Community Centre
    • Half Tree Hollow Community Centre 
    • Harford Community Centre
    • St Mary’s Church, The Briars
    • Kingshurst Community Centre
    • Levelwood Community Centre
    • Jamestown Community Centre
    • Sandy Bay Community Centre

    The Register of Electors effective from 1 July 2024 which was published today will be used in the bye-election.

    Only those persons with their name on this Register of Electors will be eligible to participate in the bye-election, with those who are 21 years of age and over being able to stand for election.

    #StHelena #ByeElection2024 #WritOfElection

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  • 2024 Register Of Electors Published

    The Register of Electors effective from 1 July 2024 has today been published in an Extraordinary Gazette. This register will be used for the forthcoming bye-election.

    The 2024 Register of Electors is available on the SHG website at: https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/news/government-gazettes/.

    Alternatively, hard copies of the register will be available at the following locations:

    • Customer Service Centre, Jamestown
    • Public Library, Jamestown
    • ENRPP Offices, Scotland
    • The Office of the Registration Officer, the Castle, Jamestown

    #StHelena #RegisterOfElectors

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  • Economic Development Investment Programme

    Middle Landing Steps

    The Programme Management Office is pleased to advise that the refurbishment works undertaken by Ambledale Workshop Ltd, on the Middle Landing Steps is now completed and the area is now open to the public.

    The project was approved for funding under the UK funded Economic Development Investment Programme (EDIP) – Micro Project, in partnership with the FCDO.

    The public are thanked for their cooperation during these works and thanks are also extended to Ambledale Workshop for a job well done.