To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration he has given to introducing a more graduated, or tapered, approach to financial support, to address potential issues faced by households whose income places them just above eligibility thresholds.

I recognise concerns about households whose incomes fall just above eligibility thresholds for income-related supports. Eligibility criteria are designed to target limited resources at those most in need, while ensuring fairness and consistency.

Within this approach, my Department has taken steps to widen access to the Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS), including raising income limits and excluding certain benefits from assessments. Most recently, War Pension and Armed Forces Compensation payments were excluded, and my officials are currently reviewing other disability-related payments to ensure the most vulnerable can continue to access the scheme. Looking ahead, the new Warm Healthy Homes Fund, due to launch in 2027, will replace AWS, with proposals to revise eligibility criteria, including increased income thresholds, to be consulted on shortly.

Related considerations apply across other supports. Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) already operate a graduated approach through a statutory means test. I am however aware that some households may still find it difficult to access such funding and my officials, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Department of Health colleagues, are currently reviewing all NIHE-administered private sector grants to identify improvements, with a consultation due to issue in the coming months.

Similarly, Housing Benefit is means tested, with entitlement reduced on a tapered basis where income exceeds thresholds. Additional support, such as the Lone Pensioner Allowance, is also available in specific circumstances but is not means tested.