To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any arrangements in place for applicants to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme who (i) are unable to apply online; and (ii) are unable to access assistance through the telephone helpline.

My Department has put in place a comprehensive range of support to assist people applying to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme. This includes a dedicated telephone helpline and face-to-face assistance through our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices across Northern Ireland. Wider departmental support services, including Make the Call and the Veterans Support Line NI, are also available for those who require additional assistance.

Officials have engaged extensively with colleagues across the advice sector to ensure appropriate support is available for anyone who may need help with the application process.

The application process has also been designed to enable trusted family members, carers, support workers and other representatives to assist applicants where required. This helps ensure that individuals are not excluded from accessing the support available to them.