XN000022-1996-09-07+08 — Page 3

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Appeal to social security board drops

The Social Security Appeal Board has received a total of 113 appeals in 1995/96 - two cases less than the preceding year.

Among the appeals, 50 were for comprehensive social security assistance, 61 for social security allowance and two were associated with the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme, according to the latest annual report of the Social Security Appeal Board.

"All appeals were heard by members of the Board who are all unofficials appointed by the Governor," a spokesman for the Board said today (Saturday).

"They act as an independent body to provide a means of redress for persons who are not satisfied with the decision of the Social Welfare Department in respect of eligibility and payment of social security benefits."

The Board has so far heard 46 cases for 1995/96 and another 27 cases brought forward from previous years.

Of these 73 appeals heard during the year, the Board confirmed the decision of the Social Welfare Department in 36 cases and varied the ruling of the other 37.

Of the 37 cases with decision in favour of the appellants, 32- or 86 per cent - of them lodged their appeals against the medical assessment.

To keep members of the public well inform of the appeal system, posters about the Appeal Board are displayed at all 33 social security field units throughout the territory as well as the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Section. Leaflets are also available for collection at these offices.

In addition, whenever a person is notified in writing of the result of his application for social security benefits by the Social Welfare Department, he is also informed of his right to appeal to the Board if he is dissatisfied with the department's decision.

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