\u2018Apply soon’ to Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme urges Assembly Committee<\/p>\n
An Assembly Committee is urging anyone eligible to apply \u2018as soon as possible\u2019 to a scheme making payments to those injured during the Troubles – before it closes next year.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n As the fourth anniversary of the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme\u2019s (TPDPS)\u00a0founding approaches, the Committee for the Executive Office is calling on anyone who has permanent physical or psychological injuries related to the Troubles to check if they qualify for payment.<\/p>\n Paula Bradshaw MLA, Chair of the Executive Office Committee said: \u201cThis scheme, set up in 2021, will only accept applications for another 12 months until 31 August 2026.<\/p>\n \u201cIts aim is to acknowledge the serious harm caused to those living with permanent disabilities caused by a Troubles-related incident.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cI am calling on anyone who thinks they \u2013 or a loved one – might be eligible for the scheme to find out more and submit an application as soon as they can.\u00a0 This will allow adequate time for their claim to be processed before the closing date.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Victims\u2019 Payments Board is an independent body which manages the scheme and you can make an application using the online portal on its website or by downloading an application form.\u00a0 You can also request a hard copy of the application form.<\/p>\n \u201cThe 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.\u00a0The financial support on offer can range from \u00a32,000 to \u00a310,000 per year and is determined by the level of permanent disablement.<\/p>\n \u201cLiving 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.<\/p>\n \u201cThere are also welfare officers in support organisations who can provide free advice on the process and help you complete the application form \u2013 so please check the Board\u2019s website at\u00a0Victims’ Payments Board<\/a>\u00a0and find out if you are eligible to apply.\u201d<\/p>\n For further information please contact Felicity Templeton at the Assembly\u2019s communications office:\u00a0felicity.templeton@niassembly.gov.uk<\/a>\u00a0or 07977 635930<\/p>\n Notes to editors<\/p>\n