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Information and public services for the Island of Jersey

L'înformâtion et les sèrvices publyis pouor I'Île dé Jèrri

Income Support: Policy Guidelines: Dental Expenses and Flooring

A formal published “Ministerial Decision” is required as a record of the decision of a Minister (or an Assistant Minister where they have delegated authority) as they exercise their responsibilities and powers.

Ministers are elected by the States Assembly and have legal responsibilities and powers as “corporation sole” under the States of Jersey Law 2005 by virtue of their office and in their areas of responsibility, including entering into agreements, and under any legislation conferring on them powers.

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A decision made 17 February 2012:

Decision Reference: MD-S-2012-0015

Decision Summary Title :

DS – Income Support Policy Guidelines

Date of Decision Summary:

16 February 2012

Decision Summary Author:

Policy and Strategy Director

Decision Summary:

Public or Exempt?

Public

Type of Report:

Oral or Written?

Written

Person Giving

Oral Report:

N/A

Written Report

Title :

WR - Income Support Policy Guidelines

Date of Written Report:

16 February 2012

Written Report Author:

Policy and Strategy Director

Written Report :

Public or Exempt?

Public

Subject: Income Support Policy Guidelines

Decision(s): The Minister decided to amend the Income Support Policy Guidelines in respect of the treatment of applications for special payments for dental expenses and floor coverings with effect from 20th February 2012.

Reason(s) for Decision:    The Department included a savings target of £100,000 against Special Payment costs as part of its CSR commitment for 2012. 

 

Dental costs make up a major proportion of special payment applications with many claims valued in excess of £1,000.  The proposal to provide funding through loans as well as grants ensures that individuals will continue to have access to  appropriate support but they will make a contribution towards larger bills.  Pensioners and people with disabilities will continue to have all their costs met through grants.

 

Co-ordination with the Housing Department has led to an improved process for void properties which will result in a reduction in the cost of providing replacement floor coverings in States rental properties.  If floor coverings are not suitable for re-use, the new tenant will still be able to apply for assistance with the cost.

Resource Implications:  

 

It is estimated that the changes to dental payments will result in a saving of £87,000 in a full year.

 

It is estimated that the changes to floor covering payments will result in a saving of between £14,500 and £50,000 in a full year, it is difficult to predict this figure accurately.

Action required:  Policy Principal to liaise with Governance and Income Support teams to update policy guidelines, departmental procedures and website.

Signature:

Position:

Minister

 

Date Signed:

 

 

Date of Decision (If different from Date Signed):

 

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