Written Answers - Social Welfare Benefits.
Trevor Sargent
Ceist:
23
Mr. Sargent
asked the
Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs
if he will make a statement on the lack of take up under each benefit payable through his Department; and the measures, if any, there are to improve the take up of each benefit or allowance.
[6347/98]
My Department delivers a wide range of services and supports aimed at enabling individuals, families and communities to participate in society in a positive way. We have responded in the past to evidence that there have been instances of apparent lack of take up of particular schemes and have taken steps as appropriate to rectify the situation. Due to the demandled nature of our schemes it is difficult at any moment in time to predict the expected take up levels with certainty.
My Department recognises that a proactive approach to the provision of timely, accurate and relevant information on its wide range of schemes and services is vital to ensure that those who have entitlements take them up. The provision of information is a primary service of my Department and is being closely examined as part of my Department's ongoing development of customer service under the stategic management initiative process. It is a central element of my Department's customer action plan 1998-99.
Consultation is the key to understanding the needs and expectations of customers. This consultation includes carrying out customer surveys, creating customer panels and liaising with the voluntary and community sector. In addition, co-operation between my Department and other organisations has greatly assisted in the identification and addressing of specific information needs. This has led to the production of comprehensive information guides for lone parents, the unemployed, employers, pensioners and emigrants.
Information on my Department's schemes and services is available from the network of 57 social welfare local offices. Staff at these offices provide detailed information on the full range of services available.
My Department takes a pro-active approach to targeting possible future beneficiaries of our schemes and services. An example is that all persons receiving social welfare benefits are notified of their potential entitlement to retirement or old age (contributory) pension some three months before the pension becomes due at age 65 and 66 years respectively.
Through its agency, the National Social Service Board, the Department promotes and supports the development of independent advice and advocacy services throughout the country. These complement and enhance the information services provided at local and central level by my Department.
I am continuing to examine further ways of addressing this issue so that the maximum takeup of my Department's schemes is achieved by; further developing the information service so that it is more pro-active, comprehensive and responsive, and participating in initiatives aimed at the Development of an integrated approach to the provision of services, particularly information, at a local level.
