Disability champion is appointed

People living with disabilities in Guernsey have been given a new voice within the island's government.

Deputy Jane Stephens has been appointed as the States first disability champion, who will take the political lead on issues and services.

The island has about 11,000 people with some form of a disability.

Mrs Stephens said although a lot of good work was already being carried out by the States, there was still scope for improvement.

The deputy will work closely with the Guernsey Disability Alliance (GDA) to advise deputies on the needs of disabled people, with the aim of ensuring a more coherent and government wide approach is taken.

GDA chair, Rob Platts, said the appointment of Mrs Stephens was a "big step forward".

"Jane's direct experience of working with disabled people and her considered and tenacious style means she is an ideal candidate for the role," he said.

The GDA fully supported her championing of the need for a disability officer within the civil service and the introduction of disability discrimination legislation, Mr Platts added.