Minister Alarmed by Reports of Special Gymnastics Club’s Treatment

Minister Troubled by Reports of Special Gymnastics Club’s Treatment

Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan says he is “shocked” and “disturbed” by claims that Jersey Special Gymnastics Club was made to feel like a “minority” in discussions over facilities at Oakfield Sports Centre.

The club, which has closed after 34 years, said it could no longer continue due to a lack of suitable facilities and raised safeguarding concerns about sharing space at the new Oakfield complex.

It was also reported that a government official once drew a “large circle and a small dot” to demonstrate how small a minority the club represented. Chair Jeannine Carey said members felt excluded: “We’ve been left out of meetings and all sorts.”

Minister Jehan said his department had been told in May that the closure was down to a shortage of coaches and volunteers. He added that Oakfield was designed with input from the club, including the addition of a wellbeing room at their request.

“My door is always open,” he said. “I hope the club can reconsider its position and find new volunteers, because I’ve seen first-hand the great work they do.”