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.