Jersey Post call and check scheme to be extended
Jersey postal workers will check on the welfare of more elderly or vulnerable people in the island as a trial scheme is extended.
About 25 islanders signed up during the trial in St Brelade with staff making about 400 short visits since it began in November.
It is being rolled out to the parishes of St Ouen, St Peter and St Mary.
Residents in the parishes who want the call and check service need to apply via forms being sent out by post.
The scheme is run in conjunction with the Health and Social Services Department (HSSD) to provide a simple way of checking on people in the community who might need extra help and support.
Postal workers undergo enhanced police checks and receive basic first aid training before taking part in the scheme, under which they pass on any worries or concerns to the individual's contacts and support network.
'Peace of mind'
Richard Jouault, head of community and social services at HSSD, said: "The aim is that as many islanders as possible can live in their own homes and enjoy full, independent lives as long as they are supported adequately."
Joe Dickinson, special projects manager at Jersey Post, said: "We've found that not only do those who have signed up to the scheme find the face-to-face contact reassuring and welcoming, but it also provides peace of mind for their family, who may not be able to visit regularly."
A Jersey Post spokesman said the scheme beat rival projects by two of the world's biggest postal companies - the US Postal Service and Deutsche Post DHL - to take top spot in the Corporate Social Responsibility category at the World Mail Awards earlier this month.