£1 million from islanders' dormant bank accounts given to charity

Friday, 17 May 2024 15:16

Island charities are set to benefit as the government allocates them £1 million from dormant bank accounts.

The money comes from the Jersey Reclaim Fund, which is made up of the balances in bank accounts in Jersey where contact has been lost with a customer for more than 15 years.

It's been given by the government to the Jersey Community Foundation, who have placed the money into the Jersey Community Fund.

This charity pot pools donations and makes grants to charities and community groups.

It'll be given out to island causes that prioritise the following:

community inclusion and tackling inequality;
caring for an ageing population;
addressing the impact of the cost of living crisis and poverty;
promoting mental health and wellbeing ;
encouraging healthy living and combatting obesity.

Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham

The Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham, tells us he's pleased to play a part in giving charities more funding:

“Charities and the voluntary sector play a central role in the life of our Island. I am aware of the ongoing challenges they face – with rising costs and growing demand – and have been determined to assist where possible.

"I’m delighted that this funding has been released from the Dormant Bank Accounts Fund, supporting charities to continue making a difference to Islanders’ lives.”

The deadline to apply for grants from the Jersey Community Fund is 23 May.