An appeal has been made in the final weeks for applications for a compensation scheme for those permanently disabled in an incident from Northern Ireland’s troubled past.
By May, some £139 million had been paid out from the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme which will close to new applicants at the end of August.
It opened on August 31, 2021 with the aim of providing those living with a disablement through no fault of their own in the Troubles with a payment in recognition of the harm they suffered, and impact on their carers.
The scheme is administered by the Victims’ Payments Board (VPB).
The Stormont Executive Office scrutiny committee has issued a final appeal, urging those eligible to apply.
It has urged anyone with permanent physical or psychological injuries related to the Troubles to check if they qualify for payment from scheme.
Committee chair Paula Bradshaw said this is the final opportunity for many to receive recognition as well as financial support.
“This scheme, which was set up in 2021, aims to acknowledge the serious harm caused to those living with permanent disabilities caused by a Troubles-related incident,” she said.
“If you think you or someone close to you might be eligible, we would strongly encourage you to find out more and apply as soon as possible before the closing date.
“This represents the final opportunity for many individuals to receive both recognition and financial support.”
She added: “The payments are intended to recognise the permanent physical or psychological injuries that were caused by Troubles-related incidents in the UK or Europe between 1 January 1966 and 12 April 2010.
“The financial support on offer can range from £2,000 to £10,000 per year and is determined by the level of permanent disablement.
“Living with a permanent disablement can have a huge impact on family and loved ones as they often take on round-the-clock caring roles. The scheme recognises that coping with serious injuries can take a financial toll on individuals and their families and payments can help with costs.
“There are also welfare officers in support organisations who can provide free advice on the process and help you complete the application form – so please check the board’s website today at victimspaymentsboard.org.uk and find out if you are eligible to apply.”
Applications can be made online athttps://www.victimspaymentsboard.org.uk/.
