By Isle of Wight Observer
I first arrived on the Island just over a decade ago. It was meant to be a short holiday with my wife of 56 years, Patty, but we both fell in love with everything the Island had to offer. The notion of retiring in London had faded from our minds years before – the Island just felt like home.
I’ll never forget an early visit to the Village Inn, where someone jokingly referred to me as a “DFL.” I quipped back, “No, I’m an EFL – Escaped from London!” A local reassured me that I only needed three generations in the churchyard before I’d be considered a true Islander.
The key to settling into a new area is learning about where you live and becoming an active member of the community. The Island has a strong community spirit, and volunteering has been a wonderful way to feel truly connected. It’s not just about giving back – it’s a chance to meet new friends, gain new experiences, and uncover opportunities you might never have considered before. There’s something for everyone here, whether you want to pass on your knowledge or simply get involved in a local group or cause. For me, it’s brought a genuine sense of belonging.
This Island still feels magical to us, but it’s not without challenges. There are serious issues – like the lack of affordable housing, the limited job opportunities for young people, and the increasing demands on an already strained healthcare system as our population grows and ages. A significant number of residents – around 18,000 every year – need to travel to the mainland for essential medical treatments such as chemotherapy, oncology, and neurology care. This, of course, makes the ferry service a vital lifeline. However, the service itself raises numerous concerns.
The ferry services we all rely on are not accountable to the people they’re meant to serve. Affordability, reliability, and transparency are ongoing issues. Over the years, ferry fares have skyrocketed, rising a staggering 87 per cent, while increases in rail fares over the same period are around half that figure. Comparisons of ticket prices paint a similar picture of disproportionate costs for Islanders who depend on these crossings.
Beyond affordability, reliability remains a pressing problem. Recent disruptions have left some routes operating with only one ship in service, causing significant inconvenience for those who depend on their services. These ongoing challenges highlight the need for immediate action to ensure the ferry system serves the community effectively. Thankfully, there’s a new initiative aimed at addressing these issues head-on. The Island’s two MPs, alongside the Leader of the IW Council, have developed the Island Charter – a collaborative approach to tackle ferry-related challenges. The MPs have asked me to help with this, using the skills and expertise developed over my working life. I started out working in a brewery and went to leading one of the biggest Trade Unions in the country – so I’ve a broad range of skills to draw on!
The Maritime Minister has called a roundtable discussion next month, bringing together Island representatives and the ferry operators. The hope is this will be the first step towards establishing a service that is reliable, affordable, and transparent.
Addressing the very real concerns surrounding the ferry service is crucial, not just for medical travel but for the well-being of the entire Island. We need a transport system that truly supports our community – a system we can depend on without breaking the bank. While it won’t be easy, these discussions offer a glimmer of hope.
The Island’s beauty and charm are unmatched, but it’s the community spirit and determination to tackle challenges together that truly set it apart.
We all have a role in shaping the future of the place we call home. I’m glad to get the opportunity to play my part.