Following a significant programme of work, JT are among the first organisations on island to be awarded Dementia Friendly Business status.
The Dementia Friendly Business scheme was launched by Dementia Jersey in 2023, with Jersey Hospice the first to secure the accolade. The scheme asks organisations to sign-up to an audit of customer facing spaces and services and complete a comprehensive training scheme for staff – as well as make an ongoing pledge to maintain inclusivity and accessibility. JT have given access to commercial and business areas of the organisation and worked hard to improve awareness of dementia for both customer-facing and office staff.
The scheme is open to all sectors, from retail to housing, utilities to entertainment, and finance to transport. Benefits of taking part include improved communication with clients, support for the workforce, and a wider impact on accessibility – as many of the outcomes can address several needs (such as visual impairment or sensory difficulties). Most importantly, the scheme means businesses pro-actively support the growing numbers of people on island with dementia or mild cognitive impairments.
Claudine Snape, CEO Dementia Jersey, said: “It’s fantastic that JT see the value of this programme and we congratulate them on their certification. The Dementia Friendly Business scheme is more than just a scheme—it’s a movement towards a more compassionate and understanding society. Businesses that embrace this initiative are not only enhancing their own operations but are also contributing to making our vision of a dementia friendly island a reality.”
Laura Belo, Head of HR at JT, said: “Over the past few weeks, our frontline teams from engineering, retail, our contact centre, and HR have deepened their understanding of dementia through the Dementia Friends Jersey workshop. They’ve learned to recognise the signs and respond thoughtfully to those living with the condition. We’re always incredibly proud of our people’s interest and willingness to make themselves more aware, all of which benefits not only our customers but also their loved ones and the wider community. Each participant has truly earned their Dementia Friends Jersey badge and we’d really encourage other workplaces to help make Jersey a more dementia-friendly place.”
Pictured: Left to right – Emma Wileman (Consumer Channel Manager, JT), Jane Vincent (Community Education Coordinator, Dementia Jersey), Dreena Collins (Dementia Project Manager, Dementia Jersey) and Laura Belo (Head of HR, JT).
