The main focus of research on benefit take up in Ireland has been the family income supplement scheme where a number of findings indicated that the level of take up of the scheme was low. In the light of that assessment, specific measures were put in place to improve the level of awareness of the scheme and thus promote an increased take up.
The provision of comprehensive information in a clear and simple manner is an essential element in the effective delivery of social welfare services. The underlying objective of my Department's information policy is to ensure that all citizens are made aware of their entitlements under a broad range of social insurance, social assistance and other supports and are kept informed of changes and improvements as they occur.
Staff of my Department participate at public events, promoting all social welfare schemes and advising people on their entitlements. In addition, they provide lectures to a range of organisations, such as employer groups, pre-retirement and voluntary groups.
My Department produces a comprehensive range of information leaflets and booklets covering each social welfare payment or scheme and these are widely available at local level from my Department, from post offices and from other organisations. New schemes, changes and improvements to existing schemes and services are advertised, using an appropriate mix of national and provincial media, Aertel, fact sheets, posters and direct mailshots. Selective use is also made of freephone services to provide information and advice on the introduction of new schemes or, for example, at budget time. The public can also access information on social welfare schemes and services through the Department's website.