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12/02/2003
Initiative to revamp benefits offices announced
Jobs and benefits centres across Northern Ireland are set to benefit from a new initiative being rolled out across the province.
NIO Social Development Des Browne said that new welfare system initiatives are being introduced throughout "to help people escape from the benefit trap and the culture of benefit dependency".
Mr Browne was speaking at the official opening of the new Jobs and Benefits Office at the Falls Road in Belfast – the result of a £1.7 million investment. The new accommodation combines the Social Security Agency and the Department for Employment and Learning resources for the unemployed in one place.
The Falls office is one of the largest in Northern Ireland with almost 10,000 customers. So far 11 Jobs and Benefits Offices have been opened in the province and over the next few years the new service will be extended to the remaining local offices.
Speaking at the opening, the Minister said: “We now have a golden opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. The Social Security Agency’s business has traditionally been about paying social security benefits. But that’s all changing at a time when we are tackling poverty and unemployment and developing services, which are focused on customer needs.
“The new integrated Jobs and Benefits Service is at the very forefront of major changes in the social welfare system, a system which encourages people into work, provides security for those who cannot work and puts this organisation at the leading edge of service delivery.”
The Minister also outlined plans to reform services to pensioners and people with disabilities and their Carers, which will make the benefit system quicker, more accessible and easier to use.
(GMcG)
NIO Social Development Des Browne said that new welfare system initiatives are being introduced throughout "to help people escape from the benefit trap and the culture of benefit dependency".
Mr Browne was speaking at the official opening of the new Jobs and Benefits Office at the Falls Road in Belfast – the result of a £1.7 million investment. The new accommodation combines the Social Security Agency and the Department for Employment and Learning resources for the unemployed in one place.
The Falls office is one of the largest in Northern Ireland with almost 10,000 customers. So far 11 Jobs and Benefits Offices have been opened in the province and over the next few years the new service will be extended to the remaining local offices.
Speaking at the opening, the Minister said: “We now have a golden opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. The Social Security Agency’s business has traditionally been about paying social security benefits. But that’s all changing at a time when we are tackling poverty and unemployment and developing services, which are focused on customer needs.
“The new integrated Jobs and Benefits Service is at the very forefront of major changes in the social welfare system, a system which encourages people into work, provides security for those who cannot work and puts this organisation at the leading edge of service delivery.”
The Minister also outlined plans to reform services to pensioners and people with disabilities and their Carers, which will make the benefit system quicker, more accessible and easier to use.
(GMcG)
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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.
