PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 22, 2025

TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF CLIENT SERVICES – JCPD HEAD OFFICE, 10 RIPON ROAD, KINGSTON

The Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) wishes to inform the public that, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety and improve our working environment, client services usually offered at our Head Office will be temporarily relocated.

From Tuesday, July 22 to Thursday, July 24, 2025, all client services will be provided at:

18 Ripon Road, Kingston 5, from 9 am to 3 pm.

This temporary relocation is a necessary step in the continued implementation of safety measures within our offices, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued clients during this brief transition.

The JCPD remains committed to delivering excellence in service and ensuring accessibility and comfort for all persons we serve.

We thank you for your continued support as we build a safer and more efficient environment for everyone.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 20, 2025

The Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) acknowledges the concerns raised in a recent report by Nationwide FM regarding the air quality and presence of mold at its Head Office located at 10 Ripon Road, Kingston 5. We wish to assure the public and our valued stakeholders that the JCPD takes the health and safety of its staff and clients with the utmost seriousness. In fact, it was the JCPD that proactively requested the Kingston and St. Andrew Public Health Department to conduct a formal environmental inspection and air quality assessment at the facility. Upon receiving the results of that assessment, from as early as April 2025 the Council took immediate and responsible action to address the findings and mitigate any potential risks to staff. The following measures were swiftly implemented:

1.⁠ ⁠Immediate Contact with the Landlord: The landlord and property manager were immediately contacted and a copy of the report shared with them with a request for immediate action to be taken to address the concerns raised.

2.⁠ ⁠Work-From-Home Implementation: Staff in the areas most affected by poor air quality and mold growth were transitioned to a remote work arrangement and/ staggered working hours.

3.⁠ ⁠Relocation Within the Building: Staff from impacted offices were relocated to safer areas within the building to minimize exposure.

4.⁠ ⁠Outdoor Break Intervals: Scheduled break intervals were introduced to allow staff to periodically leave the building and access fresh air.

5.⁠ ⁠Deep/Steam Cleaning: Scheduled deep and steam cleaning of chairs and seating.

6.⁠ ⁠Relocation Plans: The JCPD with the support of the office of the PS MLSS have been actively engaged in the process of identifying a new office location. As soon as a suitable property has been identified, preparations for relocation will begin in earnest.

The JCPD continues to prioritize staff well-being while maintaining continuity in the delivery of critical services to the disability community. We remain transparent and accountable as we work through this transition and take every measure necessary to ensure a safe and sustainable work environment.