To ask the Minister for Communities what promotional activities are planned to ensure that claimants are aware of the discretionary support non-repayable grant.

An entirely redesigned Finance Support NI Direct campaign page has been developed using stakeholder feedback, enabling users to obtain further information on all aspects of Discretionary Support and Social Fund. The campaign page went live in February 2022 and people visiting the page can make an online claim to Discretionary Support or request a Social Fund form to be issued. The page has seen a significant rise in hits since its redesign.

Awareness sessions have also been conducted with representatives from Housing Executive and their Homelessness Local Area Group which includes many third party organisations as well as people from statutory organisations.

Universal Credit journals have been updated with a reminder on how to claim Discretionary Support and the Universal Credit Contingency Fund grant if claimants are in need of short term financial support.

An advertising campaign was recently launched, between 28 February and 31 March 2022, which specifically targeted older people aged 65 and above, promoting awareness of Discretionary Support and how to apply.

Promotion of the Discretionary Support scheme will continue to ensure those in need are fully aware of the help available.