In a recent report presented by the Department of Financial Assistance, it was highlighted that total payments to clients receiving Financial Assistance and the Child Day Care Allowance have risen by 2% in the fiscal years 2023/24, amounting to .26 million compared to .10 million in 2022/23. This information was disclosed by Minister of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, Tinee Furbert, during a session in the House of Assembly.
Minister Furbert opened the discussion by laying out the 2023-2024 Annual Report, a requirement under the Financial Assistance Act 2001. The report outlines critical data regarding the demographics of assistance recipients, the structure of the program, and improvements made in program management.
A closer examination reveals a consistent demographic pattern among recipients. The categories ranked from highest to lowest participation include pensioners, individuals with disabilities, those with low earnings, and able-bodied unemployed persons. For the fiscal year 2023/24, the average number of recipients totaled 1,991, indicating a slight decline from the previous year’s average of 2,095. More specifically, there were 1,031 seniors benefiting from these services, alongside 737 disabled individuals, 122 low-income earners, and 101 unemployed persons actively seeking assistance.
Of notable importance is the increase in participants within the Child Day Care Allowance program. The reported monthly average of children receiving this assistance surged to 264 in 2023/24, a substantial rise from 118 in the previous fiscal year. This growth can be attributed to the reforms implemented in October 2023, aimed at expanding assistance and enhancing program responsiveness to community needs.
Minister Furbert further detailed actual program expenditures, which totaled .26 million. The majority of these funds were allocated to essential costs, including rent, nursing home care, food, and health insurance services. Despite a steady expenditure pattern, the report indicates a decrease in the overall number of individuals availing of financial assistance, underscoring a potential improvement in self-sufficiency among the population.
The Minister’s statement also addressed additional accomplishments noted in the Annual Report, such as a 5% reduction in the number of recipients and a decline in appeals submitted to the Department of Financial Assistance Review Board. Enhanced fiscal monitoring and improved governance within the department were also emphasized, alongside ongoing efforts to implement Financial Assistance Reform initiatives.
Lastly, the report showcased a commitment to better service delivery, supported by rigorous training for staff and effective data analysis to ensure compliance with financial regulations. These efforts aim to create a more efficient and responsive assistance system, ultimately benefiting both individuals in need and the wider Bermuda community. For those interested, the full Department of Financial Assistance annual report is available online, with printed versions slated to be distributed shortly.
