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18/11/2021
Benefit Provision For The Terminally Ill To Be Extended
The Executive has agreed to progress draft legislation to extend terminal illness provision in social security benefits.
Proposed by Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey, the draft legislation extends the current six months criterion to twelve months.
The Minister said: "I am committed to ensuring that those who find themselves in the most devastating of circumstances do not face any additional stress or anxiety in accessing financial support. This change will mean more people will gain access through the fast track process.
"I will be keeping these provisions under review and considering further options for reform in the future."
The extension of terminal illness provision will apply to all of the five social security benefits to which the special rules apply.
Minister Hargey continued: "This reform is a priority for my Department. Although timescales are challenging, I am doing everything I can to make sure these changes are made as soon as possible."
The change will open up the scope of the current system meaning more terminally ill people will qualify for fast track support in social security benefits, without the need to apply under the normal application and assessment route.
Proposed by Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey, the draft legislation extends the current six months criterion to twelve months.
The Minister said: "I am committed to ensuring that those who find themselves in the most devastating of circumstances do not face any additional stress or anxiety in accessing financial support. This change will mean more people will gain access through the fast track process.
"I will be keeping these provisions under review and considering further options for reform in the future."
The extension of terminal illness provision will apply to all of the five social security benefits to which the special rules apply.
Minister Hargey continued: "This reform is a priority for my Department. Although timescales are challenging, I am doing everything I can to make sure these changes are made as soon as possible."
The change will open up the scope of the current system meaning more terminally ill people will qualify for fast track support in social security benefits, without the need to apply under the normal application and assessment route.
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Benefit Support For Terminally Ill Patients To Be Reformed
The current rules around support provided for terminally ill patients is to be reformed with an extension of the terminal illness provision in social security benefits.
Benefit Support For Terminally Ill Patients To Be Reformed
The current rules around support provided for terminally ill patients is to be reformed with an extension of the terminal illness provision in social security benefits.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
