Why can’t locals be awarded same financial support as incomers?

I am writing to you as a local resident of Guernsey, deeply concerned about the current state of the housing situation on our island. As someone who was born, raised and educated here, with close ties to family and friends, it is with great regret that I find myself struggling to secure suitable accommodation in the place I call home.

The challenges I face are not unique. Increasingly, locals like myself are finding it more difficult to afford even rental properties, as rents rise exponentially. One contributing factor to this is the monthly subsidy of up to £1,500 offered to non-local individuals to assist with their housing. While I understand that there may be a desire to support newcomers to the island, I cannot help but wonder why a local resident like myself, who has lived here all my life, is left in such a precarious position, while others receive support that seems out of reach to those who have deep roots in this community.

I would like to respectfully ask is it possible for a local, who has lived, worked and contributed to Guernsey for many years, to be considered for a similar subsidy or support? Or does it remain the case that only non-locals are afforded such financial assistance?

The situation has reached a point where landlords, knowing that subsidies are available to those coming from abroad, are now inflating rent prices, making it even more challenging for locals to find affordable housing. This dynamic is pushing residents like myself to the brink of being unable to stay on the island, a situation that threatens the very fabric of our community.

The root of the issue is, it seems, not a shortage of housing in Guernsey but rather an over-saturation of non-essential workers who are allowed to settle here. (And please don’t tell me all these recent people are essential workers, some of whom are living in States housing, but please don’t get me started on that subject.)

Guernsey, a once peaceful and thriving island, is being increasingly burdened by this influx, leading to a dramatic shift in the character of our beloved home. I fear that we are reaching a tipping point where our island’s charm and sense of community may be irreparably lost.

I ask whether those responsible for the current policies truly understand the consequences of these actions. Guernsey is being altered before our eyes, and it is incumbent upon our leadership to address this pressing issue before it is too late.

In conclusion, I urge you to consider solutions that prioritize the needs of locals, who have made Guernsey their lifelong home, over the demands of non-essential workers. The preservation of our island’s integrity and the wellbeing of its long-time residents must be our priority.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I look forward to your response and to seeing meaningful action taken to address this critical issue.

A concerned local
Name and address withheld

Editor’s note: We do not usually publish letters without some form of identification, but we understand that this letter has been sent to all deputies and feel it does reflect issues considered relevant by many islanders at this time.