§ Mr. Gristasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his latest estimate of the take-up of family income supplement and of the amount of the benefit which remains unclaimed.
§ Mr. NewtonA recent analysis of the data derived from the 1981 and 1982 family expenditure surveys indicates that family income supplement was on average taken up by about one half of those estimated to be eligible for it during the period covered by the surveys, January 1981 to December 1982; and that the average annual amount of benefit unclaimed was about £57 million. As proportions of potential entitlement both these estimates are broadly the same as the previous estimates derived from the family finances survey in 1978–79. The indications are that percentage take-up was lowest amongst families standing to gain less than £2 a week in FIS.
While not necessarily indicating the current level of take-up, this estimate is disappointing in the light of efforts to publicise FIS in the relevant period. We have, however, taken further measures since December 1982, when the surveys ended, to bring FIS to the attention of potential beneficiaries. Recent steps include an extensive revision of the FIS leaflet and claim form to give them more impact, and extension to most of the country on 11 April this year of a Freefone service to give general advice on benefits, which we hope will particularly encourage recognition of the various in-work benefits including FIS. We are issuing a training brief to agencies involved in giving advice; and we have sought the help of employers' associations, trade unions and local authorities.