Fund launched to back community wellbeing projects

News imageBBC Drone shot of St Helier, Jersey. It shows buildings along a road. Behind there are many more buildings stretching off into the distance. BBC
Jersey Community Foundation said an independent panel would be set up to oversee funding decisions

A charity has launched a new fund aimed at improving health and wellbeing in Jersey.

The Island Health Fund will create a dedicated way for individuals, families, businesses and charitable trusts to support projects such as medical equipment, research, clinical innovation, community health initiatives and specialist training, the Jersey Community Foundation said.

Chief executive Anna Terry said: "This is not about replacing government funding. It is about what additional philanthropic support can make possible."

An independent panel would be set up to oversee funding decisions and help shape priorities, the foundation said.

Tom Binet, health minister, welcomed the initiative "and the opportunity it creates to attract new philanthropic support for health and wellbeing in Jersey".

"This is a new opportunity for individuals, families, businesses and others who want to contribute to the future of health in our island," he said.

Jersey Community Foundation said it would now work with healthcare providers, charities, government and businesses to identify areas where extra funding could make a difference.

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