Latest Posts
The St Helena Government (SHG) is pleased to announce the forthcoming release of a new series of St Helena Pound (£) banknotes. The new currency notes which include £5, £10 and £20, features the portrait of His Majesty King Charles III, and will be introduced into circulation this month. The design also features Jonathan the Tortoise and the St Helena Ebony. All three new notes will maintain their existing colours.
The issuance of these new notes is the result of work that commenced in 2024 and marks a significant step in modernising the island’s physical currency while maintaining its distinct national identity.
The Importance of the St Helena Pound (SHP)
While the St Helena Pound remains pegged to the British Pound Sterling (GBP) at parity (1:1), having its own distinct currency offers significant benefits to the island:
- Symbol of Identity: The SHP serves as a powerful symbol of St Helena’s distinct identity, heritage, and autonomous status as a British Overseas Territory.
- Local Economic Focus: It allows the currency to feature designs and imagery that celebrate the island’s unique history, culture, and endemic wildlife, fostering national pride.
- Currency Management: It provides SHG with the essential ability to manage its own note issuance and local cash circulation, ensuring an adequate and secure supply of currency tailored to the community’s needs.
State-of-the-Art Security Features
The new polymer notes incorporate the latest in banknote technology, making them more durable and significantly harder to counterfeit. These security features include:
| Feature | Action to Verify | Description |
| Clear Window | Look: Hold the note up to the light. | A transparent window is integrated into the design, visible from both the front and back. |
| Shimmer Effect | Tilt: Tilt the bank note. | A metallic shimmer will appear and move around the clear window. |
| Raised Ink (Portrait) | Feel: Run your finger over the King’s portrait. | The ink is noticeably thicker and raised, making it tactile. |
| Raised Ink (Signatures) | Feel: Run your finger over the official signatures. | The ink feels raised to the touch. |
| Tactile Dots | Feel: Run your finger over the denomination corner. | Raised dots (for the visually impaired) allow for easy recognition of the note’s value. |
| Microtext Denomination | Look: Use a magnifying glass. | The banknote denomination is printed in tiny, sharp text. |
| Negative Raised Ink | Look: Hold the note up to the light. | The microtext ST HELENA GOVERNMENT is printed in negative, raised ink that appears sharp and clear. |
| UV Fluorescence (Waves & Denomination) | Look: View under a UV light source. | Fine lines of waves and the banknote denomination will appear in two different fluorescent ink colours. |
| UV Fluorescence (Block Denomination) | Look: View under a UV light source. | The denomination number will appear in a solid, bright block under ultraviolet light. |
Further, these new notes incorporate features that will assist those who are visually impaired. Raised dots at the bottom right-hand corner of each note signify the denomination. £5 notes will have raised dots in the shape of a square; £10 notes are triangle shaped and £20 notes are in the shape of a circle.
Transition and Circulation
The existing St Helena Pound banknotes will remain legal tender and continue to circulate alongside the new notes. The SHG will manage the transition by gradually removing older, damaged notes from circulation as they are received by the Bank of St Helena.
Photo
The front and back of the new £5, £10 and £20 notes
#StHelena #Currency #NewNotes
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
At its meeting on 16 December 2025, Executive Council approved the Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025, marking an important step in strengthening St Helena’s communications framework.
The new regulations provide a clear legal basis for fees that were previously charged under the Wireless Telegraphy Regulations (WTR). Importantly, the regulations include specific fee abatements designed to support community-based and local radio stations, reducing costs for these broadcasters and helping them continue to deliver vital services to the community.
While most fees remain unchanged, the only adjustment relates to the FM radio spectrum fee, which applies to current operators, St Helena South Atlantic Media Services (SAMS) and Saint FM. This change follows consultation with FM Radio spectrum users and reflects a fair and sustainable approach.
Recognising that affordability should never be a barrier to community broadcasting, the regulations include provisions for waivers or fee reductions under Regulation 8. This ensures that local stations can continue to operate and serve the public without undue financial pressure, in line with St Helena’s policy for communication networks and services.
Minister Karl Thrower commented:
“This decision demonstrates Executive Council’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive media environment and supporting local community radio across the island.”
#StHelena #CommunicationsRegulations #SpectrumFees
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
As part of a wider commitment to the island’s tourism sector, significant efforts are currently underway to beautify and upgrade our public attractions. These improvements are designed to ensure that our historical and natural sites remain vibrant, welcoming spaces for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
In particular, we would like to acknowledge the work being undertaken by landscaper, Martin “Kunya” Buckley and his team. Their dedication to the landscaping and maintenance of the Castle Gardens is a vital part of making this area a point of pride for our community.
Addressing Recent Vandalism
Despite these positive developments, we must regretfully report that the Castle Gardens have recently been targeted by repeated acts of vandalism. Over 25% of newly installed solar lights on the walkways have been vandalised. The total cost of replacement amounting to approximately £1, 100.
It is extremely disheartening for the progress made by the team to be undermined by such deliberate damage. This type of anti-social behaviour is not acceptable; these actions do not just affect one area, but tarnishes the image and spirit of our island as a whole.
As our public spaces are for the pleasure and enjoyment of all, we call for a renewed sense of respect for these areas and the work required to maintain them.
How You Can Help
We encourage the community to take an active role in protecting our shared spaces. If you have any information regarding these recent incidents, or if you witness suspicious activity in the Castle Gardens or elsewhere on the island, please report it to the Royal St Helena Police at 22626.
Let us work together to ensure that the beauty of our island is preserved for everyone to enjoy.
Photos
Newly installed solar lights have been deliberately damaged in the Castle Gardens recently.
A meeting of the Governor in Council was held on 16 December 2025.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
| CLOSED AGENDA 1. Declaration of Interest 2. Application for Dispensation under the Immigration Control Ordinance, 2011 – ********* (GiC 05/2025) 3. Application for Dispensation under the Immigration Control Ordinance, 2011 – ********* (GiC 06/2025) NB (*) confirms names are redacted as the information is sensitive. |
The following items were considered:
- Declaration of Interest.
Minister Henry declared his interest for Agenda item 3 and absented himself for this item.
2. & 3. Applications for Dispensation under the Immigration Control Ordinance, 2011 (GiC 05/2025) & (GiC 06/2025)
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise:
(a) whether to grant dispensation from the requirements of Paragraph 1 of Schedule II of the Immigration Ordinance, 2011 in the circumstances of the applicants, and as provided for in Paragraph 4 of Schedule II of the Immigration Ordinance, 2011; and
(b) In considering the grant of a Dispensation, whether Governor in Council was satisfied that:
(i) The applicant has a substantial economic, social or historical connection with St Helena;
(ii) There are exceptional circumstances why strict compliance with the requirements should be dispensed with; and
(iii) It would be in the public interest to grant the dispensation.
Dispensation for both applications was granted by Governor in Council on the grounds of there being exceptional circumstances why strict compliance with the requirements should be dispensed with.
Letters have been sent to the applicants to inform them of the outcome and to advise they can now apply for St Helenian status.
Christmas is upon us once again. The decoration of houses with amazing light displays never fails to delight. It is similarly delightful to see so many people out and about; aircraft filled to capacity is only good news. At this special time of year the creativity of the community is on full display, whether it be the Festival of Lights, the school nativity plays or any of the other great events being organised. That positivity is uplifting.
As ever, the past year has been busy; in fact it is astonishing just how busy it does get on this island. One of the most significant milestones was our general election, a true testament to the strength and vibrancy of our democracy. With the election of our new government, we have seen new faces and ideas, all committed to continuing the mission of steering St Helena towards greater progress. A dodgy knee (in case you hadn’t noticed) will not prevent me and my team from continuing to put our shoulders to the wheel in support.
There have been real achievements over the past year to celebrate. Rupert’s Port is now complete, so too the roads connecting it to Jamestown. We are also making progress on several other infrastructure and essential equipment projects, all of which will increase the capacity of St Helena to grow. The continual strengthening of the island’s critical national infrastructure is in a way akin to expanding our foundations in such a manner that new opportunities to build are made possible.
But of course, it is always about people. Throughout the year my wife and I have found special joy in opening Plantation House for district receptions, a new initiative this year. It has been truly heartening to welcome so many residents, many for the very first time, into this historic home. Seeing Plantation House filled with laughter, conversation and the spirit of community has been one of the greatest pleasures of our tenure. These gatherings are an enactment of my determination that we respect, celebrate and recognise the incredible good work carried out across St Helena by individuals and groups who give so much to island life.
Respect is essentially about caring for one another. All of us face different challenges, some can go unseen. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes takes effort, but it is the foundation of the sort of kindness communities rely upon to thrive. One aspect of that sort of kindness is recognising that whilst joyful for most, for some in the community Christmas can be especially difficult. For those mourning or struggling, it is my heartfelt wish that the Christmas message of hope will help those in need to find peace and strength.
It would not be one of my Christmas messages if I did not pause to remember and give thanks to all those who will be working over Christmas to deliver essential services and keep our community safe. To those so engaged, I say your dedication merits our respect and is deeply appreciated.
As 2026 draws near, my mind turns to how much more there is to do in the ongoing mission to tackle some of the major challenges we face. The work to develop the education sector is now visible. Although it will herald change, my hope is that we will advance our efforts to retain and attract young families and develop the next generation who are the future of this island.
Developing the economy is also critical and obviously tourism has a key role to play. There are some exciting opportunities being worked up, not least the marathon and adventure week in February. This too builds on the work that has gone before, most recently the highly successful tour of the Titans cricket team. This island has a host of talented sports men and women and initiatives such as this offer a multitude of benefits.
To close. This will be my last Christmas message as Governor. Let me then on behalf of my wife and myself, extend our warmest wishes for a very Merry Christmas. And whatever your faith, may the New Year bring health, happiness, and prosperity to you all.
Photo
HE Governor Nigel Phillips CBE, and Mrs Emma Phillips
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
The use of drones are governed by Air Navigation (Overseas Territories) Order (AN(OT)O and regulated by Air Safety Support International (ASSI) for commercial permissions.
With the rise in drone usage for personal and recreational purposes, especially during the festive season it is important to ensure safe, responsible, and respectful drone operations to protect both the environment and public safety.
Please be mindful of the following
Airspace Restrictions
All drone operations must comply with ASSI regulations. Operators should be aware of restricted zones, including areas around the airport, sensitive environmental zones, and protected wildlife habitats.
Altitude Limits
Drones must be flown at a maximum altitude of 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level
No-Fly Zones
It is prohibited to fly drones in certain areas, including near government buildings, military establishments, and key infrastructure sites. Operators should check for updated no-fly zone maps regularly to stay informed. The Drone Map can be found on the St Helena Airport website https://sthelenaairport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drone_Rules_Design_CMYK_PRINT_A3_17May2023.pdf
Respect for Privacy
Drone operators must respect the privacy of residents, tourists, and individuals. It is illegal to use drones to capture images or videos without the consent of those being recorded, particularly in private spaces.
Safety First
Drones should be flown in a manner that avoids risk to people, animals, and property. Operators are advised to avoid flying near large crowds, wildlife, or public events. All flights should take place in good weather conditions to ensure visibility and control.
Flying in Port
Members of the public are reminded that the harbour and port areas are safety-critical operational environments. Anyone wishing to fly a drone within the port boundary or in the immediate vicinity of harbour operations is strongly advised to seek prior permission from the Harbour Master, Simon Wade on e mail simon.wade@sainthelena.gov.sh Tel 22738
This allows risks to be assessed and managed, particularly in relation to vessel movements, cargo operations, emergency response activities, and public safety.
Drone users should also be aware that cruise ships and other vessels may be considered people’s homes while in port, and the use of drones in close proximity may raise privacy and personal data concerns. Responsible and considerate operation is essential to avoid unsafe situations, disruption to port activities, or intrusion into private space
SHG
22 December 2025
Friday, 12 December 2025 marked a significant and deeply emotional day for St Helena’s educational landscape as the island’s three primary schools—Harford Primary, St Paul’s Primary, and Pilling Primary—closed their doors.
Each school hosted special ceremonies and events, including the burial of Time Capsules, to commemorate their history and legacy before they transition into the island’s new schooling structure. Carefully selected items from each class were placed into the Time Capsules, creating a legacy that symbolises the learning, friendships, and values of each school community.
Minister for Education, the Honourable Andrew Turner, attended the Time Capsule Ceremony at St Paul’s Primary and participated in the ceremony at Harford Primary, sharing in the moving farewells. The day was filled with deep emotion, balancing a strong sense of pride and gratitude for the schools’ achievements alongside the sadness of the temporary closure.
St Paul’s Primary School: An Emotional Farewell and Tribute
St Paul’s Primary School held an emotional Time Capsule Ceremony to mark the temporary closure of the school, which is set to reopen as a Key Stage 1 (KS1) school in January 2026. The event brought together pupils, staff (past and present), parents, Bishop Dale, and various government officials to reflect on the school’s journey.
A heartfelt tribute was paid to Headteacher, Mrs Patricia Williams, for her extraordinary dedication. Mrs Williams was warmly thanked by pupils and staff for her 48 years spent teaching and leading in primary education. While she is stepping down as Headteacher, she will continue to serve the educational community as a Primary School Advisory Officer until August 2026, ensuring her passion leaves an indelible mark on generations of children.
Harford Primary School: A Community Bash
Harford Primary School celebrated its closure with a lively “Harford Bash,” transforming the day into a memorable community fun day for parents and children alike. The event included activities such as kite-making and various outdoor games like rounders, cricket, and football, culminating in a whole-school Graduation Ceremony. Harford Primary provided a fitting and joyous day to appreciate the profound impact the school has had on the Longwood community.
Pilling Primary School: Honouring a Legacy of Learning
Pilling Primary School marked this historic milestone and the closure of its doors to KS1 pupils with a distinguished Graduation Assembly. This ceremony, attended by parents and learners, provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the school’s achievements and offer a heartfelt farewell to the KS1 teachers and staff.
The celebrations continued with a KS1 disco at The Mule Yard, allowing pupils to gather one final time to wish one another well in their new schools. These events followed weeks of notable acknowledgments, including the school’s recent Bonanza and Festival of Lights, ensuring that Pilling Primary’s unique history and contribution to the island were celebrated and commemorated.
Minister Turner commented:
“These ceremonies mark the beginning of a bold new chapter, a once-in-a-lifetime investment in the future of primary education. Our primary schools have always been at the heart of our community, and as we move through this transition, they will continue to need the support and involvement of the community to thrive.
This transformation will not be easy, but it has been made possible by the dedication and support of headteachers, staff, parents, and most importantly, the children, whose involvement has been invaluable in shaping this change. I would like to pay particular tribute to Mrs Pat Williams, who concluded her remarkable tenure as a headteacher before moving into an advisory role in education. Her leadership and commitment have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire us all.”
Photos
St Paul’s Time Capsule Ceremony
Farewell Assembly at St Paul’s
Mrs Pat Williams, preparing to place her Headteacher name tag in the Time Capsule
Kite-making and flying, amongst other activities, took place at the “Harford Bash”
At the Time Capsule Ceremony, speeches were delivered by Mrs Carlean Crowie, Headteacher, and Minister Andrew Turner
The Time Capsule, to be opened in December 2075
The Graduation Ceremony began with the Nursery Class
Mrs Elaine Benjamin, Headteacher of Pilling Primary, wishes her KS1 staff farewell
#StHelena #PrimaryReorganisation #SchoolClosure
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
A meeting of Executive Council (ExCo) was held on 16 December 2025.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
| CLOSED AGENDA 1. Declarations of Conflict of Interest 2. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 17 June 2025 3. Matters Arising from Minutes of 17 June 2025 4. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 14 October 2025 5. Matters Arising from Minutes of 14 October 2025 6. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 18 November 2025 7. Matters Arising from Minutes of 18 November 2025 8. Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025 (ExCo Memo 64/2025) 9. *Options for Long-term Improvements to the Domestic Telecommunications Network (ExCo Memo 65/2025) 10. Ministerial Updates on significant issues 11. Any Other Business NB Items marked (*) are commercially sensitive and depending on the subject matter, might not be referred to in the top lines. |
The following items were considered:
2 – 7. Confirmation of Minutes and Matters Arising from the Minutes
Minutes for 17 June and 14 October were signed off.
Minutes for the meeting of 18 November were deferred until the next meeting.
8. Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025 (ExCo Memo 64/2025)
Executive Council was asked to consider and advise whether the Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025 should be approved and to take effect on the date of publication.
9. *Options for Long-term Improvements to the Domestic Telecommunications Network (ExCo Memo 65/2025)
Executive Council was asked to consider options for the future of telecoms on St Helena and to advise whether SHG officers should engage with Sure SA Ltd to work through the full package available for a longer-term relationship with the company.
Executive Council has given SHG Officers a mandate to continue the dialogue with SURE SA Ltd to develop the full detail of the options. In the event an agreement with Sure is achieved, Executive Council have instructed SHG Officers to concurrently explore alternative options for telecoms provision. This is in line with our commitment to ensure the best possible outcome for St Helena. A final decision on the selected option will be made by mid-2026.
10. Ministerial Updates on significant issues
No updates were made.
- Any Other Business
No matters were raised.
#StHelena #ExCo #Toplines
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
The Health and Social Care Portfolio (HSC) is pleased to announce the relocation and integration of two of our clinical services to better serve our community.
Service Integration
Effective immediately, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy services have moved and are now co-located as a single, unified Rehabilitation Department. This move is designed to provide a more seamless and collaborative care experience for our clients.
New Location
The Rehabilitation Department is now located at the General Hospital, occupying the space previously known as the Health Education Centre (Classroom).
Contact Information
For appointments, referrals, or general inquiries, please use the following contact details:
- Phone: 22500
- Point of Contact: Please report to the General Hospital Reception upon arrival.
A Note to Our Clients
The team is currently in the process of finalising the setup of a new clinic space. We are working diligently to resume full operations and address our existing client requirements.
We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we work through the current waiting list during this transition period.
The Health and Social Care Portfolio (HSC) is issuing this notice to inform the public about a significant and early influenza (‘flu) threat this December.
Increased Risk of Early Outbreak
The UK is currently experiencing a severe and unusually early ‘flu season. With the high volume of visitors arriving in December from the northern hemisphere, St Helena is likely to be affected by the Northern Hemisphere virus. Please note:
- A new variant is circulating in the UK, which is causing high case numbers, including among children and young people.
- This new variant means that protection from previous infection or past vaccinations may be limited.
- Given the influx of visitors, we anticipate that an outbreak of ‘flu on St Helena is highly likely in the near future.
Vaccine Supply Update
HSC has been working to secure a supply of the Northern Hemisphere ‘flu vaccine since October. Unfortunately, we were informed last week that the vaccine will not be available until February 2026.
While the HSC would ideally vaccinate vulnerable people, this delay means the vaccine would arrive too late for the expected December/January outbreak. We want to be clear that the vaccine, even if available, offers only partial protection against the new variant, though it is still advised in the UK for certain groups.
Symptoms and Treatment
‘Flu symptoms can vary widely. Whilst some people will only have minor symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, headache), others may experience:
- High fever
- Severe muscle aches
- Fatigue/Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
A small number of people, particularly the elderly or those with chronic lung conditions, may require hospital admission.
Treatment: There are no effective antiviral treatments for the general public. For most people, treatment involves:
- Resting
- Taking Paracetamol or Ibuprofen to relieve aches, sore throat, and fever.
Protect Yourself and Others: Essential Infection Control
The ‘flu virus spreads in the same way as COVID-19: through coughs, sneezes (airborne), and by touching contaminated surfaces. We must apply the basic infection control measures we all learned during the pandemic:
| Situation | Action to Take |
| If you are unwell and coughing/sneezing | STAY HOME and avoid contact with others, especially the elderly and vulnerable. |
| If you must go out while unwell | WEAR A MASK to significantly prevent the spread of droplets. |
| General Prevention | Regular and thorough hand washing or sanitising. |
| When coughing or sneezing (if no mask) | Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. |
The HSC will be actively monitoring the ‘flu situation and will provide regular updates. Your cooperation with these measures is vital to protect our community.
#StHelena #FluOutbreak #AltogetherHealthier