Business
Tynwald to Consider Broader Support
Payments totalling £2.8m are to be made this autumn to cushion those most vulnerable.
Tynwald members will explore what extra support can be given to islanders as the cost of living crisis continues to worsen.
Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson has announced that payments totalling £2.8m are to be made this autumn to cushion those most vulnerable, but many are saying the gov needs to go further.
Around 3,500 households will benefit from an Energy Support Payment in October, which comes in addition to the payment already made in April this year.
Those who currently receive income support, income based jobseekers allowance or employed person’s allowance (EPA), who are responsible for housing costs will receive £300.  The cost of this will be around £1 million.
The 6,000 families who receive Child Benefit will be automatically issued with an additional Family Support Payment during November of up to £300 for those with one child and with increased payments for larger families. The cost of this will be around £1.8 million.
Reflecting that many people who are just about managing will also need gov help this winter, Chief Minister Alf Cannan has announced that CoMin will hold an extraordinary meeting on Tuesday to determine what broader support can be offered.
A behind closed doors meeting of all Tynwald members will follow to consider options.
