Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 May 2023
383. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Social Protection if hardship funds are available for victims of domestic violence who are left in financial trouble after leaving their abusive partner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21076/23]
View answerThe primary 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.
While there is no specific hardship fund to support victims of domestic violence my Department provides a range of income supports for those in financial difficulty. Easier access to rent supplement can be provided on referral by Tusla or Tusla-funded service providers. This referral protocol provides fast track approval for immediate access to rent supplement so that victims are not prevented from leaving their home because of financial concerns. The standard rent supplement means test does not apply to these applicants for an initial three month period. After three months, a further three month extension may be provided, subject to the usual rent supplement means assessment. After six months, if the tenant has a long-term housing need, they can apply to their local housing authority for social housing supports.
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. Access to the community welfare service, including Additional Needs Payments, is available to victims of domestic violence whether referred through the protocol or not. 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.
The Community Welfare Officer will also consider whether a weekly income support is appropriate and may refer the applicant to the scheme that best meets their needs.
I encourage any person who considers they may have an entitlement 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. In addition, applications can be made online via www.mywelfare.ie.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
