Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 July 2022
148. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Social Protection the process for applying for an additional needs' payment; if the 30-hour limit for working families has been removed; if a person can apply online as well as in person; the changes that have been made to the means test limits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34933/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, my Department can make additional needs payments to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income. This is an administrative 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 person's own resources and are deemed to be necessary.
The application form, SWA1, is available online at www.gov.ie for those who can access online services. The completed application form can be posted or dropped into the local Intreo Centre where it will be processed promptly. Customers do not have to meet in person with an Officer to make a claim.
Access to Community Welfare Services is not limited to a face-to-face meeting. Consultations can be discreetly arranged via phone or at our Intreo Centres and Social Welfare Branch Offices which are open five days per week. A direct home visit appointment can be arranged depending on the person's needs.
The Community Welfare Service is ready to provide a flexible service to meet the different needs of customers, who may find themselves in a financially difficult or vulnerable situation. It is important that this service is easily accessible and responsive to customer needs. The availability of locally based Community Welfare Officers and developing a modern and targeted delivery of assistance is a key feature of the service.
The 30 hour rule is not applicable to all additional needs payments. Where someone works above the 30 hour limit, the urgent needs payment is appropriate, as it is not limited to those working less than 30 hours. Urgent needs payments can be made on a flexible basis, taking into account all the relevant circumstances that apply to the person, and without the 30 hour limit applying.
An additional needs payment amount, which can have a wide range value, will depend on a person’s weekly household income, their outgoings and the type of assistance needed.
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.
