Health Minister hails new Public Assistance Act

Health Minister Vincent Wheatley has hailed the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024 as “a significant step forward” in providing comprehensive and fair support to the territory’s most vulnerable residents.

The newly signed legislation introduces sweeping changes to social welfare in the Virgin Islands.

The amendment modernises the original 2013 legislation by redefining eligibility, expanding assistance programmes, and introducing stronger oversight mechanisms. The government said it reflects its commitment to enhancing the lives of the territory’s families, individuals, and other vulnerable groups.

The updated Act introduces the concept of the benefit unit, recognising diverse household arrangements, including single individuals, couples, and families with dependents. Key definitions such as “child,” “disability,” and “dependent” have also been revised to reflect contemporary social norms. 

Eligibility criteria now include clear income thresholds based on a “minimum expenditure model,” which calculates the basic cost of living. This ensures that assistance is directed to those genuinely in need. 

The Act also broadens the scope of support by offering financial and non-financial assistance. “We have introduced several non-financial assistance options, such as counselling support, vocational training, job placement services, child protection, and temporary housing assistance, Wheatley explained. “These tools aim to empower beneficiaries to become more self-reliant.” 

Additionally, the government said that shock response grants for disaster recovery and hardship allowances for emergencies like medical care and domestic abuse support have been introduced. The Act also establishes basic income grants for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers. 

Improved administration and transparency 

The legislation empowers the Public Assistance Committee to oversee programme implementation, monitor performance, and form subcommittees to address specific challenges. A new Social Protection Management Information System has also been created to centralise applications and improve transparency. 

Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Tasha Bertie, highlighted the importance of these reforms. “The new re-assessment process ensures that all beneficiaries meet updated criteria and receive appropriate support,” Bertie stated. She also noted introducing a formal appeals process to guarantee fairness and accountability in decision-making. 

The Ministry of Health and Social Development encouraged residents to learn more about the changes and access available support.