ADVISING parents to be aware of administrative changes in the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance, Councillor Maurice Quinlivan, is fairly optimistic that it will ensure that parents who apply in good time will, unlike last year, receive their payment in time for their return to school requirements.
“Following the shambles last year, I believe that the administrative changes made will lead to a smoother operation, which now has a new automated process in that people will not need to fill an application form.
“I’m hopeful that the numerous problems encountered will be significantly reduced, if not eliminated”.
Advising parents who qualify that they should have received a letter in June from the Department of Social Protection, Cllr Quinlivan says that parents who have not yet been notified, but who are entitled to payment, should apply as soon as possible.
“Simply download the form from welfare.ie or you can get one from your Social Welfare local office or health centre, or by texting ‘form BTSCFA’ followed by your name and address, to 51909.
“It is essential that if you haven’t already received a letter, that you apply as soon as possible. – last year many applicants did not receive the payment until well after the new school term started”.
Pointing out that the scheme had been one of the most under-claimed of all entitlements, Cllr Quinlivan said it is essential to assist many families provide school uniforms, books, shoes etc for their children.
