MS Ireland’s organisational review in 2011 showed that people with MS placed great importance on the voluntary Branch Financial assistance system. It was deemed the seventh most important service offered by MS Ireland.
The service enables people to access funding that can help cover the costs of some expenses associated with MS. The fundraising activities of each voluntary Branch fund the Financial Assistance service.
Ireland’s current recession is placing great financial pressure on every person and family in the country. Added to this is the often additional expenses caused by MS. For these reasons MS Ireland believes that an accessible, transparent and equitable Financial Assistance services is so important.
After a lengthy consultation with all voluntary Branches MS Ireland has now introduced new Financial Assistance regulations. The new policy and application form will come into effect on the 1st January 2013.
The new regulations form a uniform approach to Financial Assistance that places the needs of the person with MS first. They ensure equity across Ireland and clearly set out what types of applications are considered, who considers them and what process is followed. Key aspects of the new regulations include:
- Applicants do not need to be members or known to the Branch. A diagnosis of MS is the only criteria
- All applications should be based on clear needs and will only be considered on submission of a completed application form. There is no entitlement to Welfare, it is a discretionary payment based on need.
- The regional community worker in each region is involved in each application to ensure financial assistance cannot be sought elsewhere
- Applications will not be considered for unconventional treatments, goods/services already committed to or those requiring long term financial commitment
- Where an applicant is unsuccessful in receiving welfare a reason for this decision will be given. An appeals process is in place for any applicant who wishes to appeal the decision of their voluntary Branch.
MS Ireland is heartened that many voluntary Branch currently operate a Financial Assistance system that abides by many of the new principals outlined in the new regulations. We are encouraged that many voluntary Branch see the importance of equity, transparency and meeting the greatest need. Regional staff will work with all Branches to ensure they can become compliant with the regulations by the 1st of January.
The new regulations and application forms are available form any voluntary Branch or regional office.