Widowed allowance available to unmarried parents

The allowance is a weekly payment for bereaved individuals who are caring for a dependent child under the age of 18

Unmarried, bereaved parents caring for a child can now apply for financial support following a change to eligibility criteria.

The Widowed Parent's Allowance previously only applied to those who had been married to their late partner while caring for a child under 18.

However, the States of Guernsey has changed the criteria and those not previously entitled to the weekly payment can now apply.

They must have lived with their partner prior to their death and not have remarried or started living with a new partner.

Deputy Peter Roffey, President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security, said: "The committee considers this change to be essential to ensure that Guernsey complies with its human rights obligations and ensures that the overarching law remains fit for purpose.

"Dealing with bereavement can be an extremely difficult and emotional time for anyone.

"This allowance is intended to diminish the financial loss caused to families with children as a result of the death of a parent."

Anyone who meets the criteria or wants to discuss their individual situation, is urged to contact the States of Guernsey Pension and Allowances team.