Category: Press Releases

Following an announcement in February 2025, St Helena’s only secondary school is delighted to announce its new name:

St Helena Secondary School.

This significant development follows a creative and collaborative project undertaken by the students over the past term. The initiative was designed to celebrate the school’s unique identity, honour its place within the wider community of St Helena, and strengthen its international presence.

Students were invited to submit suggestions for a new school name, and the Student Council meticulously shortlisted the options. This process ensured that the final choices reflected the school’s core values, heritage, and future aspirations. A whole-school vote to decide the final name then empowered every student to participate in shaping the school’s future identity.

The newly approved name, St Helena Secondary School, proudly reflects the school’s deep connection to the island. It reinforces its commitment to serving the local community while also highlighting its ambition to be recognised internationally as a centre of learning, growth, and opportunity.

A soft launch of the new name will commence over the coming months. While elements such as the updated name, crest, and visual identity will be gradually introduced across signage, uniform, stationery, and the school’s digital presence. The full transition to St Helena Secondary School will be completed by September 2026.

Chief Minister, Julie Thomas, commented:

“This achievement depicts yet another step in our journey of reviewing our educational provision.  Implementing standards to improve and strengthen our service offering is key to our children’s success and the success of our island, but it is of equal importance that our children’s views and opinions are taken into account as we make progress.  It is therefore deeply satisfying that a key element of our rebranding initiative has been decided upon by those very people – our students, our children.”

The school extends its sincere gratitude for the ongoing support of the community as it embarks on this exciting new chapter and looks forward to sharing further updates in due course.

#StHelena #Education #SchoolNameChange    

As previously announced, and as a result of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration are undertaking specialised training over the next six weeks. Due to the varied scheduling requirements of this essential training, a weekly opening hours schedule will be in effect and will be published accordingly.

The opening hours for week commencing 12 May 2025 are as follows:

• Monday 09:00 – 15:00 (for businesses and individuals receiving and issuing items/shipments)
• Tuesday: 11:00 – 15:00 (for businesses and individuals receiving and issuing items/shipments)
• Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: Closed

Consequently, during this training period, the reception desk will be unattended, staff will have limited access to emails and cashier services will be slower which may result in delays. Please also be aware that the HM Customs and Immigration Offices will be closed daily for a staff lunch break between 13:00 and 13:30.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we invest in the professional development of our team to fulfil the requirements of this important agreement. The weekly opening hours will be communicated regularly.

 #StHelena #BIOTFund #HMCustoms&Immigration

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The Provisional Register of Electors for 2025 has now been published by Gazette.

You can access the Gazette and the Provisional Register on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/EX-GAZ-52-Provisional-Register-of-Electors-May-2025.pdf or by contacting any of the Assistant Registration Officers. A list of officers can be found at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/.

Alternatively you will be able to view the register in person at:

• Public Library
• Customer Services Centre
• ENRP Portfolio Offices, Scotland
• Longwood Supermarket          
• Allsorts Shop, Sandy Bay       
• Mrs Cecily Williams, Blue Hill 
• Red Hill Shop                            
• Mrs Lillian Williams, New Ground     
• Half Tree Hollow Supermarket                       
• Mr Melvin Benjamin’s shop, Opposite Barracks Square 
• Silver Hill Supermarket
• Stephen McDaniel Shop, Cleugh’s Plain
• A&D’s Mini Mart
• MTB’s, Half Tree Hollow

The Provisional Register will be used to prepare the final Register of Electors, effective from 01 July 2025, which will determine eligibility to vote, sponsor or support a candidate, or stand in the 2025 General Election. No changes can be made after the final register is published until after the General Election has taken place.

You are encouraged to check the Provisional Register and ensure that your information is accurate. Eligible persons will have until 16:00 on Friday 23 May 2025 to submit applications using Form ‘A’ to amend the provisional register.

To be eligible, you will have St Helenian Status as defined by law (Immigration Ordinance, 2011), are ordinarily resident on St Helena, and aged 17 years or over. Examples of how the Provisional Register can be amended include:

• Adding your name
• Amending any details in the Provisional Register, e.g. if you have changed your name or address
• Changing the Electoral District in which you can vote

It is your responsibility to check the Provisional Register and make any necessary changes before the deadline.

Forms can be submitted in hard copy or via email to any of the following officers at the Castle:

• Carol Henry: carol.henry@sainthelena.gov.sh
• Anita Legg: anita.legg@sainthelena.gov.sh
• Gillian Francis: gillian.francis@sainthelena.gov.sh
• Connie Johnson: connie.johnson@sainthelena.gov.sh

Alternatively, contact any of the Assistant Registration Officers (who can provide a form and assist in completing it if need be) listed at:
https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/

For those who are ordinarily resident but currently off-island, Form ‘B’ is available for making amendments. Both forms can be downloaded from the SHG Elections page via the link above..

Remember: If your name is not on the Register of Electors effective from 1 July 2025, you will not be able to participate in the 2025 General Election.

#StHelena #ProvisionalRegisterOfElectors #RegisterToVote

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As previously announced, and as a result of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration are undertaking specialised training over the next six weeks. Due to the varied scheduling requirements of this essential training, a weekly opening hours schedule will be in effect and will be published accordingly.

The opening hours for week commencing 12 May 2025 are as follows:

• Monday: 09:00 – 15:00 (for businesses and individuals receiving and issuing items/shipments)
• Tuesday and Friday: 11:00 – 15:00 (for businesses and individuals receiving and issuing items/shipments)
• Wednesday and Thursday: Closed

Consequently, during this training period, the reception desk will be unattended, staff will have limited access to emails and cashier services will be slower which may result in delays. Please also be aware that the HM Customs and Immigration Offices will be closed daily for a staff lunch break between 13:00 and 13:30.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we invest in the professional development of our team to fulfil the requirements of this important agreement. The weekly opening hours will be communicated regularly.

 #StHelena #BIOTFund #HMCustoms&Immigration

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The Provisional Register of Electors for 2025 will be published on Friday 9 May 2025.

Following its publication, eligible persons will have until 16:00 on Friday 23 May 2025 to submit applications using Form ‘A’ to amend the provisional register.

If you have St Helenian Status as defined by law (Immigration Ordinance, 2011), are ordinarily resident on St Helena, and aged 17 years or over, examples of how the Provisional Register can be amended include:

• Adding your name
• Amending any details in the Provisional Register, e.g. if you have changed your name or address
• Changing the Electoral District in which you can vote

Remember it is your responsibility to check the Provisional Register when it is issued and to make an application to amend it if you wish to.  This includes adding your name if it is not already listed.

The final register, dated 1 July 2025, will be the register which will be used for this year’s General Election.  To participate in the democratic process, whether by sponsoring, supporting, standing as a candidate, or voting, your name must be included in this register. No further additions will be permitted after the final register is published.

Completed Forms ‘A’ can be submitted to any of the following officers at the Castle, between 09 and 23 May 2025 in hard copy or via email:

Carol Henry: carol.henry@sainthelena.gov.sh; Anita Legg: anita.legg@sainthelena.gov.sh;

Gillian Francis: gillian.francis@sainthelena.gov.sh; Connie Johnson: connie.johnson@sainthelena.gov.sh or any of the Assistant Registration Officers listed at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/

Persons who are ordinarily resident on the island but who are currently offshore can apply to amend the register by using the prescribed Form ‘B’.

Both Form ‘A’ and Form ‘B’ can be accessed on the SHG website at www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/

Remember, if your name is not on the Register of Electors you will not be able to sponsor or support a candidate, nor to stand or vote in the 2025 General Election. 

#StHelena #ProvisionalRegisterOfElectors #RegisterToVote

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As previously announced, and as a result of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration are undertaking specialised training over the next six weeks. Due to the varied scheduling requirements of this essential training, a weekly opening hours schedule will be in effect and will be published accordingly.

The opening hours for the week commencing 05 May 2025 are as follows:

• Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 11:00 – 15:00 (for businesses and individuals receiving and issuing items/shipments)
• Wednesday and Friday: 09:00 – 15:45 (open to merchants only)
• Wednesday and Friday: 10:00 – 15:00 (for Immigration customers)

Consequently, during this training period, the reception desk will be unattended, staff will have limited access to emails and cashier services will be slower which may result in delays. Please also be aware that the HM Customs and Immigration Offices will be closed daily for a staff lunch break between 13:00 and 13:30.

HM Customs and Immigration thanks the public for their cooperation during this important training period, which will ultimately enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of HM Customs and Immigration services in line with our obligations under the BIOT Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding.

The weekly opening hours will be communicated regularly.

#StHelena #HMCustomsandImmigration #BIOTAgreement

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The Health and Social Care Portfolio is pleased to announce its first benefit from the preventative care British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) fund that will enhance hearing care for our local Community.  This essential funding allows SHG to address the urgent need for modern interventions through a comprehensive upgrade of the Audiology service. The upgrade will include training of a local staff member, the provision of new equipment (including loanable hearing aids), and specialist support to modernise the island’s hearing healthcare.

This funding will facilitate the procurement of advanced diagnostic tools, including digital audiometers and tympanometry devices, leading to more precise hearing assessments and better-fitting hearing aids for patients. SHG has also partnered with the Hearing Aid Supplies and Services (HASS) Group and Phonak to support service delivery and training.

Community Nurse, Kamella Buckley, has begun audiology training, ensuring future self-sufficiency in hearing care from 2026 onwards. Once qualified, she will handle diagnostic assessments, hearing aid fittings, and ongoing maintenance, reducing the need for visiting audiologists.  

Minister Martin Henry stated:

“This investment from the BIOT fund represents a major step forward in ensuring accessible and high-quality hearing care for our community. Many residents have been waiting for interventions for an extended period, and with this extra funding, we can now provide life-changing support, restoring hearing function and preventing further health deterioration.”

The first phase of service has already begun, with clearing the backlog of assessments and fittings for very urgent cases. The new framework will ensure that all patients receive modern digital audiograms, replacing outdated paper-based methods and will be used to inform a priority list for future visits.

Photos

Marinda Uys, member of the Audiology visiting team, presenting some of the new equipment

Marinda Uys demonstrating how some of the equipment works

Community Nurse, Kamella Buckley, testing some of the equipment

#StHelena #AudiologyServices #BIOTFund #AltogetherHealthier

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The Property Section, in collaboration with HM Prison Services and Waste Management Services, is undertaking efforts to restore and enhance the appearance of the Crown Estate. This partnership is working well, and has already shown significant success with the clearance of the moat in Jamestown.  This area has been transformed following the removal of overgrowth, bulky waste and litter, significantly improving its visual appeal. This marks the first step in this arrangement, which plans for similar works to other public spaces across the Crown Estate.

Mark Brooks, Minister for Treasury and Economic Development, commented:

“This collaboration is a prime example of what can be achieved when portfolios and services work together. The successful clearing of the moat in Jamestown highlights the positive impact of such partnerships in improving our community spaces, benefiting both residents and visitors alike. Maintaining and enhancing the Crown Estate is essential, not only for its environmental value but also for its contribution to our island’s economy. With continued collaboration and active community participation, we can ensure the Crown Estate remains a sustainable and cherished resource that can be enjoyed by future generations while supporting long-term economic growth.”

Despite this significant progress, littering remains a persistent challenge. Regrettably, litter was observed in the newly cleaned moat just days after the initial clearance. This ongoing issue detracts from the area’s beauty and poses environmental risks.

Christine Scipio, Minister for the Environment, Natural Resources and Planning, commented:

“We must all take responsibility for the environment we share, as our collective efforts are essential to preserving St Helena’s natural beauty.  Littering not only damages our environment but also undermines our efforts to present St Helena as a responsible and sustainable destination. We urge all residents and visitors to do their part in keeping our island clean.”

Recognising the Crown Estate as St Helena’s most valuable asset, its continued restoration and sustainable management rely on collaborative efforts. Achieving these goals requires the active participation of the entire community. By working together, we can preserve and celebrate what makes St Helena unique, ensuring that the Crown Estate remains a cherished resource for future generations.

Photos

The moat before the restoration

The section of the moat at The Coffee Shop after restoration

The section of the moat at The Mule Yard after restoration

#StHelena #CrownEstate #AltogetherGreener #EffectiveEfficientandAccountablePublicSector

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April 2025 marks a significant milestone for mental health support in St Helena with the official launch of “www.mindingmymind.sh”, a dedicated website designed to empower and support young adults on the island.

The website is based on extensive research into the unique needs, aspirations, and challenges faced by young Saints. “www.mindingmymind.sh” aims to be a vital first step in learning about mental health. Whilst not a replacement for existing healthcare services, the website provides valuable self-help strategies and resources tailored to the St Helena community.

Key Features of Minding My Mind

• Saint-friendly mood management: A range of self-help strategies designed to enhance mood and well-being, reflecting the local context.
• Curated local and international resources: Access to trusted resources, both local and international, that have been tested and proven effective.
• Self-guided mood and sleep monitoring: Tools to help users track their mood and sleep patterns, enabling them to identify when additional support may be needed.
• Tailored approaches to building resilience: Information and strategies developed through direct feedback from the St Helena community.

“www.mindingmymind.sh” is the culmination of years of work spearheaded by Dr Tara Murphy, a researcher with prior experience in St Helena. Dr Murphy conducted a study in 2019-2022, laying the foundation for the website’s development.

Dr Murphy explained:

“It is a space where people from St Helena can access evidence-based approaches and helps Saints manage their own mental health. We have strived to create a platform that feels personal and relevant to Saints, incorporating their valuable feedback. Our hope is that www.mindingmymind.sh will offer practical support for mood management, promote positive activities, and contribute to overall well-being.”

User privacy is paramount. No personal details or data are collected when using this website.

Feedback and Evaluation

From April to August 2025, the team will conduct an evaluation of “Minding My Mind” based on user feedback. Young adults aged 16 and over are invited to participate in the study. Those interested in providing feedback please contact Dr Tara Murphy by email at Tara.Murphy@nottingham.ac.uk.

#StHelena #MentalHealth #AltogetherBetterForChildrenAndYoungPeople

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