Tuesday 14 September 2021
Employment & Social Security will be sending out letters over the next few days to those who receive family allowance, informing them of changes originally agreed by the States in August 2020.
There are two main changes which will take effect from 3 January 2022: -
- Family allowance will only be paid to people who have an annual income below £120,000. This household income limit includes the income of the person receiving family allowance, their husband or wife and/or any partner they are living with;
- Family allowance will only be paid for each child, up to their 18th birthday.
The exact content of the letters sent to those who receive family allowance will depend on their individual circumstances, with some people being asked to complete an income declaration form. Employment & Social Security is encouraging people to read these letters carefully to understand what the changes will mean for them, and whether they need to do anything in response.
The changes to family allowance will mean that children will receive a States subsidy for GP appointments, nurse consultations and Emergency Department treatment.
The redistribution of family allowance will also mean that all children can receive free annual dental check-ups and dental health education in schools; along with extended cultural development opportunities for States primary school pupils.
Deputy Peter Roffey, President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security said:
'Family allowance is an important source of income for many households, especially those on lower incomes, and this support will continue to be available to those who need it.
'These changes do, however, mean that there is an opportunity to divert this saving from the family allowance budget for the wellbeing of all children and young people.'
'Having been a signatory of the original policy letter that was debated in the States in August 2020, it's pleasing to see these tangible steps towards making healthcare more affordable for children.'
