SWA - Urgent Needs Payments

Table of Contents

◊ 1. Description of Scheme
◊ 2. Information Leaflet
◊ 3. Qualifying Conditions
◊ 4. Types of payments
◊ 5. Rates Structure
◊ 6. Applications

Description of Scheme

Under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme, a special payment may be made to meet an urgent need, for example, arising from a fire or flood. These payments are known as Urgent Needs Payments (UNPs).

2. Information Leaflet

SW 54 Leaflet Supplementary Welfare Allowance.

3. Qualifying Conditions

Anyone may qualify for a special payment to meet an urgent need, for example, arising from a fire or flood. However, there is no automatic entitlement to such payments. UNPs are payable at the discretion of Department’s representative taking into account the requirements of the legislation and all the relevant circumstances of the case.

4. Types of payments

The payments may be for items such as food, clothing, fuel, household goods, shelter etc

5. Rates Structure

The rates vary depending on the type of assistance required.

6. Applications

Applications for Urgent Needs Payments may be made to your local Department of Social Protection Office administering Supplementary Welfare Allowance.