Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
904. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider the possibility of streamlining applications for the additional needs payments for cancer patients on the basis of the non-medical costs of cancer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17039/23]
View answerUnder the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, administered by the Community Welfare Service in my Department, Additional Needs Payments may be made to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income.
This is a demand-led scheme 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.
The Additional Needs Payment application form begins with a free text section where the applicant is encouraged to outline their circumstances and the reason for their application. Applications are streamlined based on the immediacy of the need presented, ensuring that the most urgent cases will have their claims processed as a priority.
Any person who considers they may have an entitlement to a payment under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme is encouraged to contact their local Intreo Centre. 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.
