TWO benefits which help people on low incomes could be amalgamated as one under proposals by the Department of Social Care.

The Department is proposing to replace the Family Income Support (FIS) and Disability Working Allowance (DWA) benefits with a new benefit called the Employed Person's Allowance.

Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw MHK will seek approval for the change at next week's sitting of Tynwald.

He explained: "This change will simplify the process for eligible people who are in work but on low incomes such that they need financial assistance. 

"In addition the new benefit will reduce the amount of legislation required compared to the two benefits it replaces saving time for both the department and Tynwald. 

"The rates of allowance will not change so recipients will continue to receive the same levels of support. 

"As a result I am confident this change is a positive step which I hope will be welcomed by Tynwald."

Around 900 families in the Island receive the FIS benefit which is available to families on a low income where at least one adult works for a minimum number of hours per week. Three quarters of the claimants of FIS are lone parents.

DWA is available to people who have a physical or mental disability that puts them at a disadvantage when seeking employment but who are working for at least 16 hours per week. Currently 16 people are claiming this.

If Tynwald approves the changes the Employed Person's Allowance will come into effect from January 31.

The Department of Social Care has plans in place to contact all existing FIS and DWA recipients to advise them of the change.

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