To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any preparatory work undertaken to support employees with disabilities, and their employer, in the event of the cessation of the Employment Support Scheme.

An EQIA was published on 25th November 2024 for 12 weeks seeking the views of the public on the proposal to cease funding for the Employment Support Scheme. This public consultation closed on 17th February 2025 and no final decision will be made until the public consultation report is completed.

There has been ongoing engagement with the two providers of the Employment Support Scheme prior to and throughout the EQIA process. The providers continue to provide support and guidance to the scheme participants and their employers within their role as my department’s delivery partners. My department will continue to engage with and provide guidance to the scheme providers throughout, as required.