Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 June 2023
240. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if an exceptional needs payment might be provided in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26981/23]
View answerIf the person concerned is experiencing difficulty with their mortgage payments, they are advised to contact the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) in the first instance at www.Mabs.ie or by phone on 0818 072 000. MABS provides support with managing debt and household finances. If the person concerned 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. The person can apply for an ANP online at www.MyWelfare.ie. Alternatively and for the convenience of the person concerned, a SWA application pack was posted to them on 30/05/2023. A fully completed application should be returned to the Community Welfare Service with any supporting documentation. When all the necessary information has been received the person’s application will be processed, and they will be advised of the outcome in writing. I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
