Vol. 519 No. 5
256 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if investigations can be made into the personal alarm scheme for the elderly with a view to reducing the cost to the users, given that a number have returned the alarms because of the high cost and the 21% VAT on the billings for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14232/00]
Since 1996, my Department has operated the scheme of community support for older people, the purpose of which is to provide funding for initiatives to improve the security and social support of vulnerable older people. This funding is provided by way of grant aid to voluntary groups and organisations who have undertaken to identify those elderly people in need of assistance under the scheme.
Since I came to office in mid-1997 I have allocated a total of £13 million to this scheme which allowed 53,000 individuals to receive assistance under the scheme. I am anxious to ensure that this scheme continues to address the security needs of the most vulnerable older people in our society and, accordingly, a sum of £5 million has been provided for the scheme in my Department's Estimates for 2000.
Grant aid is available towards the cost of small scale physical security equipment such as strengthening of doors and windows, window locks, door chains and locks and security lighting; and socially monitored alarm systems, such as the pendant alarm system which is operated via the telephone and is worn around the neck or wrist.
Under the terms of the scheme a maximum of 90% of the once off costs, inclusive of VAT, associated with the purchase and-or installation of this type of equipment can be funded. Annual monitoring fees or maintenance fees associated with these systems are not provided for under the scheme. While the maximum grant available under this scheme is 90% of the total cost, it is not possible to guarantee this level of funding in respect of all applications received under the scheme. Priority in allocating the available funds will be given to the most vulnerable older people. The actual amount of the grant will vary in the light of individual circumstances and needs and the overall demands which must be met.
A review of the scheme was completed in April 1999 and there are no plans to amend it.
