Back to school allowance forms

COUNTY Wicklow’s five Citizen’s Information Centres now have application forms available for any parents seeking to apply for the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BSCFA).

The closing date for applications is September 30.

The allowance helps parents meet the cost of uniforms and footwear for children going to school.

To qualify for a payment, the parent or guardian must be getting certain social welfare payments or taking part in training, employment or adult education schemes while their children must be aged between four and 17 on or before September 30 of this year or aged between 18 and 22 on or before September 30 if still in second-level education.

Ann Conan, an advocate with County Wicklow Citizens Information Service, said that if parents received this payment last year and there has been no change in their circumstances, the Department of Social Protection will pay BSCFA automatically to them.

‘This means that you do not have to apply for the payment. If you qualify automatically, you should receive a letter stating when and how your Allowance will be paid,’ said Ms Conan.

Parents or guardians will be notified of their entitlements shortly and the payment will start to be issued during the week ending July 14.

Co Wicklow Citizens Information Service provides confidential, free, impartial, information, advice and advocacy to everyone on their social and civic rights and entitlements in areas such as social welfare, employment, heath matters, immigration and more. The team is highly trained and knowledgeable and can assist anyone wishing to apply for the BSCFA.

People are welcome to drop into or call their nearest Citizens Information Centre. They are located at Arklow (call 0761 07 6750), Blessington (call 086 0481881), Bray (call 0761 07 6780), Glendalough (call 0404 45600) and Wicklow town (call 0761 07 6840).