11 October 2016
States members today agreed additional funding to provide benefits to lower income households which will include a new, targeted Christmas Bonus.
The Christmas bonus is worth £84.87 and will be paid in December to an estimated 4,000 people. Anyone aged over 65 who is receiving Income Support or a member of the 65+ Health Plan will receive this payment automatically in early December. Social Security will be writing to all pensioners to explain the details of the new benefit.
In addition, the Christmas Bonus will be paid to younger Income Support claimants who have a significant disability and are claiming a Long Term Care benefit at home or are receiving a personal care component at level 2 or above. It will also be paid to those who care full time for someone with a disability and receive a carer’s component.
Finally, a Christmas Bonus will be available to people who don’t receive Income Support because they live in a care home, but they rely on a means tested Long Term Care benefit to support their day-to-day living costs.
Deputy Susie Pinel, the Minister for Social Security, explained “I am delighted that this new Christmas Bonus has been approved by the States. Vulnerable households already have access to help with health and heating costs and this new means-tested Christmas Bonus will be a very welcome addition. I believe this new scheme provides fair and targeted assistance to those pensioners and vulnerable islanders who need a little extra help at this expensive and important time of year."
“We offer a range of support to people over 65 who have limited financial means. Some people may not like to apply for help but I would encourage anyone aged 65 or above who does not pay income tax and has limited savings to get in touch with the Department if they think they are entitled to any of our benefits.”
Christmas Bonus
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