ISLANDERS on lower incomes who do not have five years’ residency could be entitled to a lump-sum payment of £250 as part of a temporary scheme to help with the cost of living.
Social Security Minister Lyndsay Feltham has announced the Registered Employee Support Payment Scheme (RESPS), which is expected to affect around 900 people and could cost the government £225,000.
This new measure acknowledges that the government has fallen short of their original target to introduce a living wage before the end of 2024.
Deputy Feltham said in a statement that transition is instead expected to be completed “by 2026”, when the minimum wage will be set at two-thirds of the median wage.
The scheme is one of the support measures being used to assist employers and employees during Jersey’s transition towards a living wage, the statement said.
It is unclear where the funds have come from and whether it forms part of a larger package which is helping Island businesses transition to the living wage.
Deputy Feltham said: “The transition towards a living wage is an important priority of this government. By 2026 we aim to reach a minimum wage based on two-thirds of the median wage and we are providing some temporary support measures to these employees during that time.
“I also recognise the impact the current cost of living is having on lower-income workers not entitled to income support. These Islanders provide valuable services across a range of sectors and make a significant contribution to the Island.
“They will benefit significantly from increases in the minimum wage over the next two years and this scheme is designed to support lower-wage earners through this transitionary period, and hopefully encourage them to stay in the Island, and continue to provide important services and skills.”
Customer and Local Services has contacted those believed to be eligible and they have until 22 November to apply for the one-off lump-sum payment.
