Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2022
105. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider introducing a dedicated exceptional needs’ payment for costs related to persons fleeing domestic violence in a similar manner as has been done with rent supplement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59273/22]
View answerPrimary responsibility for the development and provision of services to support victims of domestic violence rests with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
The accommodation needs of victims of domestic violence are met through a joined-up service delivery model provided by Tusla with the close involvement of housing authorities nationwide and the support of the Department of Social Protection through the provision of rent supplement. Access to the wider service provision of the community welfare service, including Additional Needs Payments, is also available to victims of domestic violence whether referred through the protocol or not. Customers do not have to meet in person with an Officer to make a claim.
Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, my Department may make Additional Needs Payments to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income. This is an overarching term used to refer to exceptional and urgent needs payments, and certain supplements to assist with ongoing or recurring costs that cannot be met from the customer’s own resources, and which are deemed to be necessary.
The scheme is demand-led and there is no budget cap. Payments are made at the discretion of the officers administering the scheme, taking into account the requirements of the legislation, and all the relevant circumstances of the case in order to ensure that the payments target those most in need of assistance.
I remain committed to supporting victims of domestic violence and providing support through the joined-up service delivery model provided by Tusla.
Any person who considers they may have an entitlement to an additional needs payment is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
