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As winter is fast approaching, the Committee for Employment & Social Security are reminding islanders of the availability of the Winter Fuel Allowance and other support that may be available to them.
The Winter Fuel Allowance is automatically paid to all eligible householders receiving Income Support and is payable for 26 weeks from the end of October each year. This year, payments will commence from the 27th of October and will be £36.28 per week.
Additionally, if islanders are getting Income Support and have an illness, or disability, or a health condition which means that they need to spend extra on energy costs, or on laundry and clothing costs, or on food and diet costs, they might qualify for an Extra Needs Allowance of up to £20 per week.
Even though some people don’t qualify for a cash benefit through Income Support, they may still be able to get help with:
A reduced Winter Fuel Allowance
A reduced Winter Fuel Allowance may be payable to a householder if their weekly income exceeds the level at which they would be eligible for Income Support by less than the amount of the Winter Fuel Allowance i.e., less than £36.28.
Help with medical costs (including prescriptions)
If islanders fall outside of Income Support levels by up to £60 a week, and their savings are less than defined limits, then their medical and para-medical costs might be covered through the scheme.
Examples of medical support include the costs associated with visiting a GP, physiotherapist, osteopath, chiropractor, and chiropodist, and prescription charges.
In exceptional circumstances, medical cover can be provided even if someone’s weekly income exceeds the Income Support level by more than £60 per week. This need is established by the Income Support team on an individual case-by-case basis.
Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, Vice-President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security said,
“The winter period can be a challenging time of year for many people, including the most vulnerable in our society. It is vitally important that the Committee do all we can to help and to make sure that those that are eligible for additional support are aware of all the assistance that may be available to them.
There are a range of grants, benefits, and advice available to help with bills, medical charges, and everyday costs.
If you are struggling, I strongly encourage you to contact our Income Support team to explore these, and other, options that may be available to you.”
More information can be found on the Benefits, Allowances & Support section of www.gov.gg. The Income Support team are also available for enquiries over the phone on 221000 or by email at IncomeSupport@gov.gg.
