The Wage Subsidy Scheme is a workplace support from the Department of Social Protection (DSP) for employers. It gives financial support to employers who employ people whose condition falls within the disability framework.

Following a recent review of the scheme, 6 changes/recommendations are being implemented to the programme:

1. Reduce the minimum required hours for the scheme. The minimum hours requirement to avail of the subsidy has been reduced from 21 hours to 15 hours to enable those with more limited work capacity to be included.
2. Remove the term ‘productivity deficit’ from the scheme. The scheme no longer focuses on a productivity deficit but on the need to adapt the role to a disabled person’s ability.
3. Expand the scheme beyond recruitment to include retention of people returning to work. This is particularly important as most disabilities are acquired. People who return to work on Partial Capacity Benefit and who have acquired their disability or health condition in the previous 12 months are now eligible.
4. Expand the scheme to the community and voluntary sector and commercial state-sponsored sector. This will increase employment opportunities for disabled people by expanding the scheme beyond private sector employers to all non-public sector employers.
5. Review the subsidy rate on a regular basis. This will ensure that the subsidy continues to sufficiently support employers. The subsidy rate will be reviewed at least every three years.
6. Promote and improve knowledge of the scheme. The Minister has today launched a nationwide publicity campaign for the Wage Subsidy Scheme to promote and improve knowledge of the scheme. (www.gov.ie)

For more information on the scheme or information on how to apply visit: gov.ie/wss.