Press release
Minister McEntee formally announces Department of Justice to become JAM ‘Just a Minute’ card-friendly
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Published on
Last updated on
The Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has today (Wednesday) formally announced the Department of Justice's commitment to becoming JAM card-friendly.
The Department of Justice is the first Irish Government Department to commit all its staff to this initiative which forms a key part of its Customer Service and EDI strategies.
JAM stands for 'Just A Minute' and allows people with a hidden disability or communication barrier to let others know that they need extra time in a simple and discreet non-verbal manner.
The department's Accessibility Team has been working with staff to ensure the initiative is adopted fully as part of its Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (EDI).
Speaking about the JAM card, Minister McEntee said:
“I am delighted to support the roll out of the JAM card initiative across the department. Removing barriers to equality isn't always about building ramps or moving walls, sometimes it’s just about showing that we understand the needs of the person in front of us.
“The JAM card is a simple, practical expression of our commitment to inclusiveness and our staff have embraced the idea of making the conversation at the counter an easier experience. Adopting the JAM card helps raise awareness of hidden disabilities and opens up the space for a better engagement with colleagues and customers.”
Maeve Monaghan, Chief Executive of NOW Group adds:
“With nearly 170,000 JAM Card users across Ireland and the UK, we are delighted that the Department of Justice is investing in JAM Card training. This training ensures that individuals with both visible and hidden disabilities receive the extra time and understanding they deserve.
“As a social enterprise, we are dedicated to championing diversity and equality for all, however, we can’t achieve this alone. It’s essential that we collaborate with public and private organisations to promote inclusivity for everyone. We are thrilled to have the Department of Justice join us on this important journey.”
The JAM card is an initiative of the social enterprise NOW Group. It was designed in 2012 by some of their participants with learning disabilities and autism. The card was developed based on their own experiences and is all about putting the power to pause into their hands.
Carrying the discreet little card, or the simple app on their phone, a JAM user can signal they need a small bit of extra time and understanding when transacting their business. Throughout the island of Ireland there are now over 168,000 JAM card users and it is supported by small shops, large businesses and many public bodies.