Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 May 2023
195. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the maximum social protection payment available under whatever heading in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25499/23]
View answerThe responsibility for the provision of rent support to those with a long-term housing need is under the remit the local authority. If the person has a long-term housing need their local authority can provide information regarding suitable housing supports.
The person concerned is currently in receipt of a One Parent Family Payment (OPFP) of €294.50 per week. However, if the person requires assistance with essential expenses that they are unable to meet from their weekly income, they may be entitled to assistance under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme.
The SWA scheme is the safety net within the overall social welfare system and helps eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents. Supports provided under the SWA scheme can consist of a basic weekly payment, a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of certain expenses, as well as single Additional Needs Payments (ANPs). This is an 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 customer’s own resources, and which are deemed to be necessary.
It is open to the person concerned to apply for an ANP online at www.MyWelfare.ie, providing all relevant documents in support of their application. Alternatively, the SWA1 form is available in all Intreo Centres and Branch Offices. It can also be requested by calling 0818 60 70 80 and by using this link www.eforms.gov.ie/en/forms/5. A completed application form together with any supporting documentation can be returned directly to my Department where the claim will be processed quickly.
Information on all income supports available from my Department can be found at www.gov.ie.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
