On June 3, 2025, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, announced the launch of the Virgin Islands Eat Well Guide and Dietary Guidelines during the Fifth Sitting of the House of Assembly. The Guide is a key part of the Territory’s strategy to combat chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease by promoting balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyles. Built around five core food groups, it encourages the consumption of local, nutritious foods and supports national goals of food security and public health. It will serve as a standard tool in schools, healthcare, and community programmes, with further plans to introduce a protected essential food basket to make healthy options more accessible. The Minister emphasized that the Guide is not just a document but a call to action for individuals, families, and communities to build a healthier Virgin Islands.
A three-member team from Operators Without Borders (OWB) has returned to the Territory to support the Water and Sewerage Department in strengthening the water distribution system. This follows the Government of the Virgin Island’s declaration of water as a national critical priority.
Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, delivered a statement marking Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month and Autism Awareness Month in April 2025. Under the themes "Collective Action to Strengthen Prevention" and "Celebrate Differences," he emphasized the community’s shared responsibility to protect children from abuse and to support individuals with autism. He highlighted efforts such as the advancement of the Sexual Offences Bill, which aims to strengthen legal protections for survivors and create a Sexual Offenders Registry. The public is encouraged to wear blue on April 25 in support of child protection. Minister Wheatley also called for an inclusive society that values the unique contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum, supported through initiatives by the Social Development Department’s Disabilities Unit. The message: together, we can build a safer, more compassionate Virgin Islands for all.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is requesting proposals for a Comprehensive Electrical Assessment of His Majesty’s Prison, in Balsum Ghut, Tortola.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is requesting proposals for the construction of a classroom / computer lab at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, Tortola.
The Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre, 81% complete, is a special education facility in the Virgin Islands. Set to finish by mid-2025, it will feature accessible classrooms, therapy rooms, and other amenities for students with special needs. It will serve about 30 students and is the first of its kind in the region.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is requesting proposals for the construction of an Auxiliary Water Storage System at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsum Ghut.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is requesting proposals for the renovation of the restrooms at the East End/Long Look Community Centre.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is requesting proposals for the retrofitting of the sewerage system at His Majetsy’s Prison, Balsum Ghut.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is requesting proposals for architectural services for roof designs for the administrative buildings at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, Tortola.