10 OCTOBER MARKS KEY MILESTONE IN FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE REFORMS

On Thursday, 10 October 2024, the Needs Assessment Unit (NAU) will officially transition to the Department of Financial Assistance (DFA), marking a major milestone in the ongoing transformation of financial assistance services in the Cayman Islands. The 10th of October holds special significance, as it not only commemorates exactly two years since the passage of the Financial Assistance Act, 2022, but also exactly one year since the regulations were approved by Cabinet to support the Act.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Investment, Innovation, and Social Development, André Ebanks, shared the Ministry’s vision for the future of financial assistance: “Over the past three years, we’ve been building a system that truly puts people first - one where fairness and transparency are at the core of every decision. The transition to the Department of Financial Assistance and the introduction of the Financial Assistance Appeals Tribunal marks a bold step towards ensuring that every individual in need of assistance is treated with dignity and respect, based on their unique needs. This transformation is about more than policies; it’s about empowering our community to thrive. The Department’s new name symbolises the final step in this journey, reminding us that meaningful change requires courage, and without change, there can be no progress.”

The creation of the DFA represents the final step in a process designed to modernise and improve the delivery of financial assistance. Since February 2024, the NAU has been operating under most of the new regulations to ensure a smooth transition and improve the client experience. This early implementation allowed the department to fine-tune processes, train staff on new procedures, and bring new team members on board to manage increased demands. By working within this framework before the official commencement, the DFA is well-prepared to continue providing timely and effective support to clients with minimal disruption.

Over the past year, the NAU has implemented several changes, including new provisions for emergency assistance, rental deposits, and expanded support for accommodation, utilities, and transport. Director of the Needs Assessment Unit, Tamara Hurlston, highlighted the steady progress: “For the last year, we’ve focused on improving how we deliver assistance, using feedback to refine and adjust our services. Current clients can rest assured that nothing is changing for them with this transition, as most of the reforms have been in place since early 2024.”

A major feature of this transition is the establishment of the Financial Assistance Appeals Tribunal. This independent body is designed to review appeals and provide an unbiased process for clients to challenge decisions made by the department that relate to specific policies. Comprising individuals with expertise in areas like law, health, and finance, the Tribunal will ensure decisions are made transparently, removing any perception of influence.

The DFA’s online portal, *www.dfa.gov.ky*, will also launch on 10 October 2024, allowing clients to submit applications online through an easy to navigate application form. While applications can still be submitted by email or in person, those who apply through the portal will be able to see the status of their application once it’s submitted. The new portal will also allow the department to commit to making a decision on a complete application within ten working days. In addition, physical improvements have also been made, with a larger office now open in Cayman Brac and renovations underway at the Grand Cayman office to provide a more dignified space for clients.

MIISD Chief Officer, Tamara Ebanks, expressed gratitude for dedication of all those involved in this process: “This transformation would not have been possible without the commitment from the staff at NAU and the Ministry to the teams at eGov and Computer Services Department. We’ve already seen how these changes have helped improve access to assistance, and we’re excited to continue improving as the Department of Financial Assistance.”

To mark the completion of this transformation, MIISD and DFA will host a public information event on 10 October 2024, at Constitution Hall in George Town from 9am to 1pm. The public is warmly invited to attend to learn more about the new department, explore the online portal, and ask questions about services. Attendees will also receive application assistance, and light refreshments will be provided. There will also be a raffle for grocery store gift cards. We encourage residents to come out, engage with the team, and find out how the changes can benefit them and their families.

The Ministry remains committed to ensuring the Cayman Islands’ financial assistance services continue to meet the community’s needs through ongoing change and improvement.