Local people receiving social welfare payments can avail of new arrangements from this week which will make it easier for them to return to education, according to local Fianna Fáil TD Margaret Conlon.

The new arrangements are expected to ensure that a lot more people can return to classes, which will in turn help improve their prospects of getting a new job. The main change being implemented will allow those who have been on welfare for nine months to avail of the scheme which is down from the previous minimum period of one year. In addition, for the first time support will be offered to people who want to resume a course which they have previously dropped out of.

Under the scheme, jobseekers will have their welfare payments replaced with a Back to Education Allowance, which includes an extra €500 a year towards the costs of returning to school or college. Both second and third level courses are covered. In anticipation of increased demand following the immediate introduction of the new arrangements the Government is providing €169 million to fund the scheme. During the last academic year 20,800 jobseekers returned to classes and over the coming 12 months that figure is expected to be 25,000.

“I would encourage people receiving social welfare payments and who have an interest in improving their job prospects through education to examine whether or not they are eligible for inclusion in this scheme,” stated Deputy Conlon. In order to apply you should contact the relevant second or third level school and ask which courses are available under the Back to Education Scheme. Advice will also be offered on how to obtain a place. When accepted download and complete the application form which is available at www.welfare.ie or from local social welfare offices. The offices are also able to provide further information on the scheme.