§ Mr. Andrew BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has any proposals to provide assistance through income support with the installation and running costs of emergency alarm systems.
§ Mr. PortilloThe costs of the installation of emergency alarm systems are not met under the existing supplementary benefit scheme and we do not intend to make specific provision for this under income support or the social fund. Where a person's income support assessment includes an246W amount towards his housing costs (in particular, mortgage interest) help will be available for the running costs of an emergency alarm system. Help will be given only where the alarm system is provided in accommodation which is occupied by and is particularly suitable for elderly, sick or disabled people and the claimant has no choice but to meet the cost as part of their service charge.