The recent Budget, while not fully addressing the reality of the increases in the cost of living, did offer some relief by way of increase of €12.00 to all on social welfare payments. The one-off payments and changes to supports also offered some financial relief, albeit on a short-term basis.
However, we are now hearing of difficulties for people in accessing these supports. Across the Cost of Living Coalition we are hearing of people who have applied for supports and have had no response or cannot get an appointment with a Community Liaison Officer. This is particularly difficult for people seeking emergency support.
We eagerly await to hear the particulars of the new cost-of-living package to be announced next Tuesday. We continue to lobby for more targeted, viable and sustainable supports for older people in Ireland.