The INOU recently held a series of three informative online Discussion Forums. The Discussion Forums are information and discussion events and have remained a key part of the INOU’s work for twenty years. These usually include two main presentations with significant time factored in for discussion. Discussion Forums were held in-person in different geographical regions prior to Covid. Since 2020, the regional discussion forums have moved online. While moving the Discussion Forums online has made them easier to attend, there is a value in running some of these in-person and we plan to hold two of next year’s Discussion Forums in-person.
The three online Discussion Forums took place on Tuesday, 5th November, Thursday, 7th November and Wednesday, 13th November. These focussed on the theme of Information and Advocacy.
Bríd O’Brien, the INOU Director, provided a presentation and set the context for the discussion. Bríd outlined the current policy context in relation to Information and Advocacy, including potential policy gaps. Bríd noted key points raised at previous INOU events and projects; in ‘Towards a Civil Society for Transformative Change’ prepared by community activists; and the ‘Values and Principles for Collaboration and Partnership working with the Community and Voluntary Sector’, a government publication.
Robbert Lynch’s, the Manager of the INOU Welfare Rights Information Section, presentation focussed on how the current system operates. Robbert highlighted the practical issues, concerns and anomalies, including many which are presenting to the INOU Welfare Rights Information Section. Robbert’s presentation emphasised Disability Payment applications, the Appeals system and noted the high number of successful appeals and reviews.
There were good discussions at the online events. Participants highlighted the difficulties faced in making applications from people who have literacy or digital literacy difficulties. Participants noted that many people may be eligible for payments – including the Back to Work Family Dividend – but have not applied for these as they are unaware that they may be eligible. It was noted that a more proactive ‘Benefit Uptake’ approach on behalf of the State would be very useful.
Participants enquired about useful resources in relation to Appeals and Review. Community Law and Mediation’s Case Base (of social welfare appeal cases), the Social Welfare Appeals Office Report and the Office of the Ombudsman’s Report were all listed as very useful for anyone assisting people in understanding the process and decision-making informing appeals. The difficulties that some people are facing following the introduction of universal tax credits in Northern Ireland were also highlighted.
These events illustrate the vital role provided by community-based organisations delivering information and advice services. The INOU would like to thank all those who attended the Discussion Forums in November. The INOU would also like to thank the Department of Rural and Community Development and Pobal for their support under the Scheme to Support National Organisations. Copies of the two presentations are here.
We plan to hold the next Discussion Forums in April/early May 2025.