Help Navigating the System When Life Changes

In this episode we are joined by Claire Walsh and Nora Durcan from the Department of Social Protection in Sligo, alongside Orla Barry from Citizens Information. Together they walk through the financial and practical supports available when illness, caring or bereavement reshapes a family's life; illness benefit, invalidity pension, disability allowance, carer's allowance, carer's benefit, the carer's support grant, domiciliary care allowance, supplementary welfare and the new bereaved partner's pension. They explain the fast-track process for terminal illness, how to appoint an agent, how to appeal a decision, and how the access officer service supports vulnerable customers. Their message is simple: these supports are a right, not a charity, and there are real people ready to help you take the first step.

Discover The Journey Together, a podcast by North West Hospice Charity. Hear advice, personal stories, guidance and emotional support for patients, families, and caregivers navigating palliative care.

"Seeking support is not a charity. It's a right within the social importance of social assistance."

"Always apply. People just assume they're not entitled to things… we won't know until you apply."

"We're all human. We all have brothers, sisters, mummies. We've all been through it or will go through it or know somebody who has."

Guests: Claire Walsh and Nora Durcan (Department of Social Protection, Sligo); Orla Barry (Citizens Information)

Host: Tara Rafter, The Navigation Coach

Show music: #mobygratis @mobygratis

Supported by: Citizens Information Centre Sligo

This podcast is produced by Verver

by ⁠⁠North West Hospice Charity⁠⁠

Referenced Links

MyWelfare.ie · Citizens Information.ie · Gov.ie/DSP · MABS.ie