JT has joined the Channel Islands’ response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Irma. Jt have waived all roaming charges for any JT customer caught up in the disaster until they can return.

The company, which is owned by the people of Jersey, is also working with Island authorities to identify other ways to help. This could include sending engineers and equipment to the region.

JT Chief Executive Officer Graeme Millar said: “Like most people, I have been following events in the Caribbean and Florida closely. I’ve been truly shocked and saddened by the scale of the devastation. Being a global business with worldwide roaming agreements, JT is in a position to be able to offer practical help. Especially to Channel Islanders caught up in the aftermath of this terrible natural disaster.

“We have heard stories of communities being cut off from the outside world. This is due to of a lack of communication. So, it’s comforting to know that we can offer some help to islanders and their families back home.

“Being a small island ourselves, I think we feel a natural empathy with the impacted Caribbean communities. Particularly, as we have strong business links with many of them. JT has used social media to ask affected customers to contact us. The engagement has been heartening, with hundreds of people expressing their solidarity and support. I would like to encourage as many people as possible to share our posts with their friends. We want to spread the message far and wide.”

One story from the Caribbean illustrates how JT’s global reach has already had a positive impact. Jersey couple Tim and Shona Ringsdore live in the British Virgin Islands. Consequently, their home was badly damaged when Hurricane Irma struck last Wednesday. All phone lines were down – except Mrs Ringsdore’s JT mobile. This has been the only way that the couple has been able to let friends and family know that they are safe.

Their London-based daughter, Katy, said: “That one phone has been an absolute live-saver. Only could mum and dad let me and my sister know that they’re safe using JT. Also the whole neighbourhood has been using it to speak to friends and family. I know that a couple of international businesses had lost contact with some of their BVI employees. However, through the JT phone, mum and dad were able to track them down. That one JT phone has made a massive contribution.”

JT customers in the region affected by Hurricane Irma should send a Direct Message to JT via the company’s Facebook page. Alternatively, Islanders who know of affected JT customers can contact the JT Contact Centre on 882882 to leave details.

ENDS

For further information or to set up interviews, please contact Julien at Direct Input. Telephone 01534 735253 or email julien@directinput.je