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Irish Department of Justice now JAM Card-Friendly

Writer's picture: Gerry MonaghanGerry Monaghan

Updated: Oct 29, 2024


Minister McEntee with Maeve Monaghan CEO of NOW group and members of the Department of Justice Access Team.
Minister McEntee with Maeve Monaghan CEO of NOW group and members of the Department of Justice Access Team.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has formally announced the Department of Justice's commitment to becoming JAM Card-Friendly.


In a landmark move, this is the first Irish Government Department to commit all its staff to the global  ‘Just A Minute’ movement, which will be a key part of its Customer Service and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategies. 


Showing someone a JAM Card is a simple and discreet non-verbal way for people with a hidden disability or communication barrier to let others know they need a little extra time and support.


The Justice Department’s Accessibility Team has been working with staff to ensure the initiative is adopted fully as part of its EDI programme.


Welcoming the decision to become JAM Card-Friendly, Minister McEntee said: 

“I am delighted to support the roll out of the JAM card initiative across the Department. Removing barriers to equality isn't always about building ramps or moving walls, sometimes it’s just about showing that we understand the needs of the person in front of us.

“The JAM card is a simple, practical expression of our commitment to inclusiveness and our staff have embraced the idea of making the conversation at the counter an easier experience.  Adopting the JAM card helps raise awareness of hidden disabilities and opens up the space for a better engagement with colleagues and customers.”


Maeve Monaghan, Chief Executive of NOW Group, added: “With nearly 170,000 JAM Card users across Ireland and the UK, we are delighted that the Department of Justice is investing in JAM Card training. This training ensures that individuals with both visible and hidden disabilities receive the extra time and understanding they deserve.


“As a social enterprise, we are dedicated to championing diversity and equality for all, however, we can’t achieve this alone. It’s essential that we collaborate with public and private organisations to promote inclusivity for everyone. We are thrilled to have the Department of Justice join us on this important journey.”


Find out more about the award-winning JAM Card 


The JAM card concept is owned by NOW Group, a social enterprise, and was devised by some of their participants with learning disabilities and autism. Drawing upon their own experiences in day-to-day life and the workplace, they wanted a simple and discreet way to overcome communication barriers. 


Showing a JAM Card or the JAM app on your phone instantly lets others know you need ‘Just A Minute’ of support and understanding. Since its launch in 2012, the JAM card has revolutionised the lives of tens of thousands of users, making it easier for them to succeed at work, use public transport, go shopping and enjoy visiting restaurants and many other venues. 

Popular with/used by many world-famous brands, JAM Card is now a global movement that is rapidly spreading beyond Ireland and the UK to many other countries. 


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