§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to change the bereavement payments system for those leaving no dependants; and if he will make a statement. [98990]
§ Malcolm WicksWe have no plans to change Bereavement Benefits. The current scheme was introduced on 9 April 2001 in order to focus help where it is most needed; on immediate needs and on families with children and to provide equal access to men and women for the first time.
The Bereavement Payment is a lump sum payment of £2,000 payable immediately to help with costs arising on bereavement. Widowed Parent's Allowance is a weekly benefit payable to widowed parents who satisfy the qualifying conditions. In addition Bereavement Allowance is a weekly benefit payable, for 52 weeks following widowhood, to widows and widowers aged 45 and over without dependant children.