Group calls for support for returning islanders

A Guernsey political group has called for the island's government to introduce a support package for people moving back to Guernsey and Alderney after studying or working abroad.

Future Guernsey wants the States to introduce a "welcome home" package - offering financial support - to "level the playing field" for people returning to the islands.

Lindsey Freeman, from Future Guernsey, said public sector workers relocating to the bailiwick got support including help with moving costs and subsidised rent, but this was not currently available to many people moving back.

The States has been contacted for a comment.

Freeman said the move could save the States money in the long term as people returning who had "a connection, family and history" were "far more likely to stay on the island".

Former bailiwick residents can be eligible for a relocation package, but must demonstrate they are not otherwise intending to move back.

Freeman said the group also planned to propose separate policies to support young people who did not want to leave the island, such as those in apprenticeships and employment.

Future Guernsey was founded in 2024.

The States said on its website it offers a "generous relocation package" to people moving to Guernsey to start employment with the States, including an up-front lump sum to cover moving expenses, subsidised accommodation or a house purchase grant for people selling a house to move to the bailiwick.

The financial support options available could include:

• A one-off payment of £5,000 to any States employee relocating to Guernsey (£6,600 if relocating to Alderney)
• Costs for attending an in-person interview in Guernsey including travel and accommodation, where appropriate
• Subsidised rent for the first two years of up to £260 a week for people in private rentals
• An additional rent subsidy of up to £154 a week for up to a year while people are trying to sell a house outside of Guernsey under certain circumstances
• A tax-free lump sum of £8,750 for people selling their main home abroad and buying in Guernsey
• Help towards furniture storage of up to £50 a week for six months

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