NI residents to have their say on reopening of Independent Living Fund

Independent Living Fund Scotland (ILFS), the public body that (on behalf of the Department of Health NI) provides financial support to enable disabled people to live independently, has called on people living in Northern Ireland to share their views on the possibility of re-opening the fund in Northern Ireland through an online survey.

The online survey replaces a number of consultation events that were planned to take place across Northern Ireland in March, which had to be cancelled due to the lack of confirmed numbers attending in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The purpose of this online survey is to provide evidence to plan a formal Governmental consultation later in the year.

Currently, over 430 people across Northern Ireland receive ILFS support to live independently in their homes and communities.

In 2010, the fund was closed to new recipients, leaving many who would have previously qualified without this financial support.

Now ILF Scotland and the Department of Health NI are calling on all disabled people, ILFS recipients, family, friends, personal assistants, Disabled Persons Organisations in Northern Ireland and any other interested parties to complete the survey before the 17 June 2020 and tell them what they think about the support available to them, as well as their views on the possibility of re-opening the fund in Northern Ireland.

Speaking to Newry Times, ILF Scotland Chair Susan Douglas Scott explained the importance of getting involved, “It was really disappointing that we had to cancel our scheduled events across Northern Ireland due to the coronavirus lockdown.

“We had a significant number of people who we know wanted to attend these events as I did myself.

“However, we had to make sure we all stay safe and at home except for essential travel. 

“So to make sure we continue to make progress, we have now set up an online survey.

She continued, “It will be invaluable to us if you can tell us your ideas about the future of the Independent Living Fund.

“We would especially like to know what you think about the possibility of reopening the fund in Northern Ireland.

“It’s very important to us that as many people as possible complete the online survey to offer their insight.

“The reason I am asking for your help is because at ILF, we always make decisions based on what disabled people tell us they need to support their independent living.

“‘Nothing about us, without us’ is a well-known disability rights tag line, and it is at the heart of everything we do at ILF.

Susan added, “I look forward to hearing all your thoughts and ideas.”

To complete the survey visit www.ilf.scot/northernireland.

Consultation ends at midnight on 17th June 2020.

Keep up to date with all the latest Northern Ireland Coronavirus / Covid-19 news HERE

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Posted by NewryTimes News on May 29 2020. Filed under Community. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry