Category: Press Releases

The Property Division is pleased to announce the Playgrounds Project, a new initiative to create modern, safe, and inclusive recreation areas for families at the existing playground in Half Tree Hollow (Lower Graveyard) and at Longwood Green. This project is part of the £30 million Economic Development Investment Programme (EDIP), funded by the UK Government.

We are seeking public feedback, particularly from young people and families, to inform the design of these new spaces. The community is invited to submit their preferences for new play equipment and facilities. Suggestions can be as simple as a general description, such as “climbing frame” or “swings”, or can include a specific web link to an example or a particular piece of equipment. All equipment choices will be subject to available funding.

In addition to new play equipment, the project is considering a range of other facilities to enhance the recreation areas. These include outdoor gym equipment designed specifically for children, locally crafted wooden seating and concrete picnic benches, solar-powered street lighting, and communal litter and recycling bins. Prior to the installation of any new equipment, both locations will undergo grounds maintenance, including the removal of weeds, vegetation, and litter, to visually improve the areas.

The Project Manager is also reaching out to businesses and members of the public who may wish to support this initiative through philanthropic sponsorship of equipment or facilities. Maximising the project’s budget through such support will allow for the creation of higher-quality and more comprehensive recreation spaces.

Feedback can be submitted to the Project Manager, Mike Durnford, via email at Mike.Durnford@sainthelena.gov.sh by Friday, 29 August 2025. All contributions will be instrumental in shaping these new and improved community assets.

#StHelena #AltogetherBetterForChildrenAndYoungPeople #PlaygroundsProject

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At a reception held at Plantation House on Thursday evening, HE The Governor, Nigel Phillips, presented  the Certificate and Badge of Honour Awards to Kerry Sim and Nicholas Yon.

The Certificate and Badge of Honour Award was endorsed by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in 1957 and is awarded for valuable service or meritorious conduct that is of an exceptional nature and benefit to St Helena. Under the statutory rules governing this award, the Certificate and Badge of Honour is only available to residents of St Helena i.e. someone who has St Helena ‘Saint status’ or has been resident on the island for not less than 10 years. Previously recipients have been granted the Certificate and Badge of Honour in a number of fields, which include teaching, nursing, safeguarding of children, and service to the community, longstanding and loyal service on the RMS St Helena and in some local government functions.

In a speech given during the reception, HE The Governor, highlighted the achievements and service to the island by both Kerry and Nicholas, noting also that they were recognised and nominated by members within the community and approved by the National Honours and Awards Committee.

Kerry was awarded for her dedication to the St Helena Veterinary Service and exceptional commitment to the care and welfare of animals, and Nicholas for his unwavering commitment to the work of the Salvation Army and selfless service to the community.

Congratulations are extended to both Kerry and Nicholas on their achievements.

Photos

Kerry being presented with her award from HE The Governor

Nicholas being presented with his award from HE The Governor

Kerry and Nicholas displaying their Certificates and Badges

HE The Governor with both awardees

#StHelena #CertificateandBadgeofHonour #HonoursAwards

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SHG
19 August 2025

As the world marks the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 August, the St Helena Veterans Association (SHVA) and Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) will hold commemorative events, with the support of various island agencies and partners, to remember the significant contribution of the island to this crucial Allied effort.

VJ Day marks the official surrender of Imperial Japan in 1945, and the official end of World War II, a moment of collective relief and celebration after years of devastating war. Even in this remote corner of the South Atlantic, the impact of the war was felt deeply. Whilst initial plans for a St Helena naval station did not fully materialise, the island’s strategic importance became apparent. The sinking of the RFA Darkdale in October 1941 brought the realities of the conflict to St Helena’s shores, highlighting its vulnerability. Nevertheless, the island adapted and continued to contribute to the broader Allied effort. The island later served as a place of refuge for survivors of the British passenger steamship S.S. City of Cairo. These events illustrate the far-reaching impact of the Battle of the Atlantic and the part played by St Helena during this critical period.

These experiences will be reflected in the island’s programme of events organised by the SHVA, designed to honour both international and local contributions to the Allied victory:

The programme will include:

• 11:00 – Main Service led by Bishop Dale, two minutes of Silence and Wreath Laying, at the Cenotaph, with the Governor and Heads of Uniformed Services in attendance.
• 11:00 – Memorial Dive to the Deck of the Darkdale (a WWII War Grave) by members of the FCDO from the Governors Office and Dive St Helena to Light the Wreck in commemoration.
• Sunset – 23:00 – Lighting of High Knoll Fort to commemorate the occasion.

The legacy of St Helena’s wartime contribution reminds us that even the most remote places can be profoundly connected to world events. As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan, the events planned to take place on Friday 15 August 2025 will serve as a poignant reminder of the wartime experiences and contributions of the people of St Helena alongside the wider Allied forces in the pursuit of peace

Photos (Courtesy of the Museum of St Helena)

The wreck of the RFA Darkdale the morning after the attack.

The S.S City of Cairo

 #StHelena #80thVJDay #VeteransAssociation

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SHG
15 August 2025

A General Election will be held on Wednesday, 3 September 2025, if more than 12 valid nominations are received on Nomination Day, which is 20 August.

Those on the Register of Electors effective from 1 July 2025 should know that if they are ill, physically incapacitated, or off-Island and cannot make it to the Polling Station on Polling Day, there is provision to vote by Proxy.

Voting by Proxy is a process that allows a registered elector to nominate someone they trust to cast a vote on their behalf in an election. The person casting the vote is known as a “Proxy.” This option is available for individuals who are unable to get to their designated polling station on polling day due to reasons such as illness, physical incapacity, or being away from St Helena. This includes Saints working on Ascension or the Falkland Islands whose names are included on this Register.

If you wish to vote by Proxy, your nominated Proxy must be on the Register of Electors effective from 1 July 2025 and they must be registered in the same Electoral District in which you are registered.

An elector can only act as a Proxy for one person and should vote for the candidates requested by the person, which should be no more than 12.

To vote by Proxy you must obtain advance permission from Returning Officer, Carol Henry, at the Castle. To get permission, you must complete and return the relevant application form by no later than 10am GMT on Monday, 1 September 2025 (any applications received after this time will not be accepted).

Application forms are available from The Castle Reception, the Customer Services Centre and the Public Library. Forms can also be obtained from the following:

Carol Henry: carol.henry@sainthelena.gov.sh 

Gillian Francis: gillian.francis@sainthelena.gov.sh 

Anita Legg: anita.legg@sainthelena.gov.sh

Connie Johnson: connie.johnson@sainthelena.gov.sh 

Proxy application forms are also available on the St Helena Government Website at: https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Form-Election-Proxy-090101.pdf

#StHelena #GeneralElection #ProxyVoting

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The Royal St Helena Police (RSHP) is issuing a renewed warning to all drivers regarding the dangers of using mobile devices while operating a vehicle.

The use of handheld mobile phones while driving is not only a serious road safety concern but is also an offence. This includes texting, taking calls without a hands-free device, or interacting with social media and other apps.

Every time a driver looks at their phone, they are putting themselves, their passengers, and other road users at serious risk. Even a momentary glance can result in a life-changing crash. We are committed to reducing distracted driving across St Helena and will take enforcement action where necessary.

Research shows that looking away from the road for just two seconds significantly increases the chance of a collision. At even moderate speeds, sending or reading a text can mean driving blind for the length of a football field.

The RSHP reminds all road users of the following:

• It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving.
• Drivers caught using mobile phones can and will face fines.
• Hands-free devices should only be used where it is safe to do so.
  If you must use your phone, stop in a safe location and turn off your engine.
  
  

The Road Traffic Ordinance, 1985, states the following:

“Mobile telephones, hand-held radios and any other hand-held communication devices 32A.

(1) A person must not drive a vehicle on a road while holding a telephone, a hand-held radio or any other hand-held communication device in any way while the vehicle is in motion.

(2) A person does not contravene subsection (1) if, at the time of the alleged contravention the person is –

(a) performing duties as a member of the Police Service, the Fire Service or any other emergency service; or

(b) using the telephone or radio to call the police, fire, ambulance or other emergency 16 service in response to a genuine emergency, and it is unsafe or impracticable for the person to cease driving in order to make the call.

(3) A person who fails to comply with subsection (1) commits an offence. Penalty: A fine of £1000.”

The public are encouraged to report dangerous driving or road safety concerns to Police Headquarters by telephone on 22626, via message on Facebook, by email through emergencycontrol@helanta.co.sh or by speaking to any officer.

RSHP continues to work towards safer roads and a safer St Helena for all.

#StHelena #RoadTrafficSafety

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The Emergency Services of St Helena are thrilled to announce a free, family-friendly Emergency Services Open Day, set to take place on Friday, 22 August 2025, from 10:00 to 16:00 at the Sea Rescue Base in Rupert’s.

This unique event offers the public an unparalleled opportunity to go behind the scenes, meet the dedicated teams who work tirelessly to keep the island safe, and gain a deeper understanding of the vital work performed by St Helena’s emergency responders. The day will bring together representatives from the Ambulance Service, Sea Rescue, Royal St Helena Police, Fire and Rescue, GIS, the Medical Laboratory Team, and other essential services for a dynamic day of live demonstrations, interactive activities, and community engagement.

Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive programme including:

• Individual service stalls showcasing equipment and capabilities
• Live demonstrations from ambulance, fire, police, and sea rescue teams
• An exciting obstacle course
• A challenging rope tying competition
• The ultimate test of strength: a fire truck pull challenge
• A captivating live-action multi-agency emergency response demonstration

In addition to the thrilling displays, refreshments will be available, and a variety of family activities will ensure fun for all ages. The Medical Laboratory Team will also be on site from 10:00 to 15:00, offering the opportunity to learn about and participate in blood donation for those who wish to contribute.

Portfolio Director for Safety, Security and Home Affairs, Alex Mitham, commented:

“This event truly brings our community and emergency services together. It’s a chance to go behind the scenes, meet the people behind the uniforms, and take part in a day that’s both fun and informative. We’re proud to showcase how our services work side by side every day to protect and support the people of St Helena.”

The event is open to everyone, and the public is strongly encouraged to attend, take part in the activities, and show their support for the island’s emergency heroes.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, 22 August 2025
• Time: 10:00 to 16:00
• Location: Sea Rescue Base, Rupert’s
• Entry Fee: Free

The day will commence with an opening speech and a full programme of events. Updates and announcements will be shared on social media in the lead-up to the event.

The day will begin with an opening speech and a full programme of events. Updates and announcements will be shared on social media in the lead-up to the event.

For more information contact Deputy Emergency Planning Manager, Anel O’Bey, via email at anel.obey@helanta.co.sh or by telephone on 25052.

#StHelena #EmergencyServicesOpenDay

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SHG is inviting expressions of interest from individuals to serve on a Governance Commission. This commission will seek the community’s views on the recommendations in the St Helena Governance Review Report.

This report was recently commissioned to evaluate the effectiveness, transparency and accountability of governance structures pertaining to the ministerial form of government that was introduced in 2021, and was laid on the table at the formal meeting of Legislative Council on 26 June 2025.  A copy of the report can be found on the SHG Website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/CoE-St-Helena-Governance-Review-Final-Report-June-2025.pdf.

The Terms of Reference for the Governance Commission are also available on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Governance-Commission-2025-ToR.pdf.

Interested persons should contact Portfolio Assistant for Central Support Services, Crystal Maggott, on telephone 22470 or via email at crystal.maggott@sainthelena.gov.sh by Friday, 29 August 2025.

The Liberated African Advisory Committee (LAAC) is proud to announce the launch of The Portrait Gallery- Stories of the Face, an exhibition commemorating the third anniversary of the reburial of Liberated Africans at Rupert’s Valley. The exhibition officially opened on Friday, 2 August 2025, and is a collaboration between Assistant Professor Andreana Cunningham, Boston University, the Museum of St Helena, and the St Helena National Trust, with support from the St Helena Tourist Office.

The exhibition features powerful portraits of three individuals from the Rupert’s Valley burial ground, created by Saint/Saint-descended artists in collaboration with a bioarchaeologist (who studies skeletal remains of the historic past). These portraits are a result of a unique process that merges scientific accuracy with artistic interpretation. Using methods of facial reconstruction traditionally used in forensic identification, the artists have brought to life what these individuals may have looked like, offering a poignant and personal way to honour their memory.

The Portrait Gallery highlights the importance of using both science and art to understand and commemorate the past. It shows that the act of creating a portrait can be a meaningful and respectful way to give a face to those who were once forgotten. The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the history of the Liberated Africans on St Helena and the significance of their final resting place.

Helena Bennett, Director of the St Helena National Trust and Chairperson of the LAAC, commented:

“This exhibition is a testament to the collaborative spirit of St Helena and our shared commitment to preserving our history. By blending art and science, we are able to connect with these individuals on a deeply human level by giving them an identity and ensuring their stories are told.”

The Portrait Gallery is open to the public at the Museum of St Helena in Jamestown until 30 August 2025. The exhibition is an essential part of the ongoing efforts to honour the history and legacy of the Liberated Africans of St Helena.

Photos

Collaborators in the project (left to right): Assistant Professor and bioarchaeologist Andreana Cunningham, artist and St Helena Tourist Office representative – Sophia Joshua, SHNT representatives and LAAC members Shelley Magellan-Wade and Helena Bennett, artist Anna Henry, Museum of St Helena Director Adam Sizeland and artist Sophie Gresswell

Artists who participated in the project: Craig Peters, Sophia Joshua, Sophie Gresswell, Andreana Cunningham and Anna Henry

Attendees at the launch viewing the exhibition

Some of the artwork on display

#StHelena #MuseumofStHelena #LiberatedAfricans

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A paediatric first aid course was recently held at the Sea Rescue Base in Rupert’s, run by Rae Dickie-Clark and Armand Brits, both Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) within the Ambulance Service.

The term ‘Paediatric First Aid’ is used to refer to the skills and knowledge required to provide effective first aid to children, which is anyone under the age of 16. The course was free of charge and was open to parents, grandparents and carers so they could better respond to a child in distress if needed. The course covered recognition of life-threatening conditions, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for infant and child, choking, how to recognise the signs of concussion, burns and the use of an AED.

Michael Gaga-Hale, Emergency Operations Manager, said:

“I’m really pleased that our team volunteered to deliver the Paediatric First Aid Course. Education is just as vital as emergency response as it equips people with the knowledge to recognise when help is needed and gives them the confidence to provide basic care before an ambulance arrives. That early action can make a real difference in outcomes, especially in paediatric emergencies where time is critical and people often feel very distressed.

This course gives members of the public the chance to learn practical skills, ask questions, and build their understanding of what to do in an emergency. It also gives us, as an ambulance service, the chance to connect with the community in a different way. We’re able to answer their concerns, build trust, and break down barriers between the public and emergency services.

Taking up opportunities like this is important. It supports prevention, strengthens our relationship with the community, and helps people feel more prepared and confident to act when it matters most. Thank you to those who attended, and to the EMTs who gave up their free time to deliver the course.”

Anel O’Bey, Deputy Emergency Planning Manager, thanked everyone who took part in the day. Emergency Planning is looking forward to continue organising similar courses in the near future, which will further increase the island’s response capacity.

Photos

Participants and trainers at the course

EMT, Rae Dickie-Clark demonstrating care on a dummy baby

Rae, demonstrating how to respond to a person in distress due to choking

Rae and fellow EMT, Armand Brits, demonstrating how to use an AED

Armand, instructing trainees how to deliver CPR on an infant using a dummy

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The Governor’s Office is pleased to announce that Mansiel Falqueza has been awarded a Chevening Scholarship.  Mansiel has been accepted at the Coventry University to study for a Master’s degree in Nursing for a period of one year.

Mansiel has worked as a Staff Nurse at the General Hospital since 2019 and has recently covered Oncology.

Mansiel stated

“As I prepare to embark on my MSc in Nursing at Coventry University, I am eager to immerse myself in a programme that focuses on contemporary perspectives of care, nursing issues, research and leadership. More than anything, I look forward to connecting with fellow scholars in the healthcare sector, exchanging insights, and sharing aspirations. Chevening’s extraordinary global network offers a unique platform to build lasting relationships, foster collaboration, and inspire collective change—an opportunity I am deeply honoured to be part of.”

Chevening Scholarships are fully funded by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations and offers first class a study in the UK.

The Chevening programme is aimed at developing leaders and influencers, and those who want to make positive change in their community/country.  Chevening allows individuals to grow personally and professionally, through a programme of bespoke events and activities, whilst gaining a prestigious and internationally recognised qualification. Over 1000 scholarships have been awarded this year worldwide.

Applications are now open for the next round of scholarships and will close on 7 October 2025.  

For more information on applying visit www.chevening.org or alternatively contact Kerry Lane, Chevening Officer in the Governor’s Office at Kerry.Lane@fcdo.gov.uk

Photo :

Successful Candidate – Mansiel Falqueza

Governor’s Office, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

5 August 2025