11 August 2009 - Wilson launches leaflets on financial help for ratepayers

The leaflets, produced by Land & Property Services in consultation with organisations from the local advice sector, are targeted specifically at pensioners, people with a disability and people on a low income.

Mr. Wilson said “The current economic climate is putting real financial pressure on everyone and in particular, many of our more vulnerable citizens. I therefore want to ensure that people who are struggling to pay their rate bill are aware of the range of financial assistance available.

“These new leaflets explain, in simple language, who can benefit from schemes such as Lone Pensioner Allowance, Disabled Person’s Allowance, Rate Relief and Housing Benefit schemes and how to apply for this help.

The leaflets aim to redress some popular fears and misconceptions citizens have about applying for financial relief. The Minister continued: “Elderly people are sometimes anxious about applying for Lone Pensioner Allowance fearing it is means tested. I would encourage these citizens to read the new leaflet, written specifically for them, as it clearly states that this is not the case.”

At the launch the Minister was also keen to highlight the consequences ratepayers face if they do not pay their bill. The Minister urged any ratepayers struggling to pay their rate bill to immediately contact Land & Property Services or risk being issued with a court summons.

The Minister said: “I encourage any ratepayer experiencing difficulty paying their rate bill to immediately contact Land & Property Services. Agency staff are keen to work with ratepayers to determine a suitable payment plan and advise on benefits.”

Anyone having difficulty paying their rate bill should contact Land & Property Services immediately on 0845 300 6360.

The new information leaflets on financial help for ratepayers are now available from all Land & Property services customer offices as well as many advice sector organisations such as Citizens Advice Bureau, Advice NI, Access to Benefits, Age Concern and Help the Aged. The leaflets are also downloadable from Land and Property Service website and the new government web portal for citizens nidirect.

Pat Hutchinson, Manager of Newtownabbey Citizens Advice Bureau said: "People across Northern Ireland are missing out on money that is rightfully theirs and could make a huge difference to their quality of life. I therefore very much welcome the publication of these new leaflets which highlight the help that is available to people who are having problems paying their rates bill. I would urge pensioners, people on low incomes and people with a disability to read the new leaflets in order to find out about the help that is available to them. The Citizens Advice Bureau are also available for anyone needing further help or advice, and I would encourage people to make use of the services we provide."

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