relief.
(The latter two might be conveniently grouped together as accident compensation.)
(a) Public assistance scheme
This was introduced in 1971. It is a means-tested but non- contributory scheme, designed to provide cash assistance to those whose incomes fall below a prescribed level. The benefits are reviewed and increased from time to time in line with rises in the cost of living. Originally, public assistance was not payable to those aged between 15 and 55 who were fit and available for work, but with effect from 1st April 1977, public assistance was extended to the able-bodied unemployed.
(b) Disability and infirmity allowance
This allowance caters for two vulnerable groups, the severely disabled, and those elderly persons (aged 75 and over) who are not in residential care institutions, such as old people's homes and hospitals. Introduced in 1973, it provides a non- contributory, non means-tested allowance in addition to any entitlement to public assistance.
(c) Accident compensation
{
In
The criminal and law enforcement injuries compensation scheme, which was introduced in 1973, assists victims of crimes of violence and people who are accidently injured or disabled by law enforcement officers in the execution of their duties. addition, emergency relief, in the form of cash and material aid, is available to victims of natural or other disasters, such as typhoons and fires.
Social security : Non Government financial aid
304
The Government administers various funds which are intended to give financial help to those in need. These include the Brewin Trust Fund, the Hong Kong War Memorial Fund, the Li Po Chun Charitable Trust Fund, the Mercantile Marine Association Fund, the Sir Robert Ho Tung Charitable Fund and the most recent the Tang Shiu Kin & Ho Tim Charitable Fund.
3.5
In addition, the Standard/Sing Tao Fat Choy Fund, made up of donations from the public, helps families over the Chinese New Year and offers immediate financial aid to the needy. The Kai Fong Welfare Associations help persons residing in their districts.
3.6
Financial assistance is also provided to a limited extent by the voluntary social welfare agencies, although in general, when the public assistance scheme was extended in 1971, the voluntary agencies ceased to play a major role in the provision of cash aid.
?
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.