Ritchie welcomes £81million social fund pay-out

More than £81million was paid out by the Social Fund last year to thousands of people in real need.

The figure, published in the Department for Social Development Social Fund Annual Report for 2006-2007, includes winter fuel payments, maternity and funeral costs, non-repayable community care grants and interest-free budgeting and crisis loans.

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA said:

“These figures reflect my Department’s commitment to helping the most vulnerable members of society. The Fund gives extra help with essential costs that people on low incomes find hard to pay for out of their regular budget.

“Last year, the Social Fund made over 225,000 awards worth more than £81million. In addition, the total spend for 2006/07 on Winter Fuel Payments and the 80+ Payment was more than £50million.”

The Minister also announced the publication of the Social Fund Commissioner's Annual Report for 2006-2007 and welcomed the continuing commitment of the Office of the Social Fund Commissioner to meeting the customers’ needs through an efficient service.

Notes to Editors:

1. The report is available on the DSD website at: http://www.dsdni.gov.uk/publications-sf_annual_reports.htm
2. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.