It sounds obvious, but Guernsey is an island, so whether visiting or moving to Guernsey, your travel will involve either a plane or boat journey. The Queen Elizabeth Foundation have recently made a film called 'Your guide to Flying with Disability' which can be viewed via the https://www.qef.org.uk/. Although primarily about travelling if you are a POWERED wheelchair user, it has some extremely useful tips regarding airport travel in general.
Guernsey Airport have introduced lanyards to make the airport more easily accessible and inclusive. Passengers have the option of wearing a sunflower lanyard whilst travelling through the airport. This will identify them to staff as someone who may need additional support or understanding. See Hidden Disabilities lanyard.
Their website gives advice on what to do if you have a disability and how they can help you.
Checklist for moving to Guernsey
Along with what comes from any move, coming to Guernsey has some unique features.
First, it is advisable to contact the MS specialist nurse to discuss your treatment. Not all the Disease-modifying treatments (DMT's) used in the UK are currently available in Guernsey. If you are going to need to change your medication it is best to get this stabilised before the move. Similarly, if you have specific equipment needs it is easier to sort these out before you arrive.
Secondly, medical care is funded differently in Guernsey. You will need to obtain a Social Security number, this will entitle you to see a specialist for free (paid for by the States) but care from your GP or practice nurse is private, and costs about £65 per 10 minute consultation and about £141 for 20 minute consultation. Alternatively, you can consider taking out Primary Care insurance to cover your GP costs.
If you will be working in Guernsey, it is important to know that Guernsey has different employment legislation to the UK. This may not affect you at all but if you have any concerns, then discuss it with our specialist nurse and if necessary she can advise you who to contact (see also section 'The Workplace').
Moving can be a very stressful time and it is better to take a bit longer and have some rest factored in, rather than trying to get it all done quickly. This will require some forward planning so allow plenty of time! Discuss your requirements with e.g estate agents so that your visits will be enjoyable and not exhausting.
