The supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE). SWA provides a safety net against poverty in that it gives a statutory entitlement to a minimum weekly income, based on criteria set out in legislation. The Eastern Area of the HSE has advised that the person concerned was refused supplementary welfare allowance on the grounds that she did not seek maintenance from her spouse. The person concerned appealed this decision and an Appeals Officer of the HSE has upheld the decision to refuse payment. It is open to the person concerned to re-apply for supplementary welfare allowance should her personal circumstances change.