Issues & Goals
What We’re Addressing and Working Toward
Addressing the practical, financial, emotional, and policy challenges faced by widowed and bereaved partners in Ireland.
Key Challenges We Are Raising
We are highlighting the inequalities, administrative burdens, and gaps in support that affect widowed and bereaved partners and their families, while also calling for practical, compassionate reform.
These are some of the recurring issues affecting members of our community and raised by WBPI in Leinster House.
Pension and Sick Pay
Those in receipt of Widow’s Pension are unable to claim statutory sick pay, creating a serious gap in support during illness.
Widowed Parent Tax Credit
This credit can only be claimed for five years and reduces each year, even though many are not in a position to return to work quickly after bereavement.
Income Thresholds
Income thresholds can limit access to additional social welfare payments, grants, medical cards, and other essential supports.
Bereavement-Trained Staff
There is a need for dedicated staff within the Social Welfare Department who understand bereavement and how different payments and circumstances affect each other.
Children’s Passport Renewals
Additional paperwork and costs arise every time a child’s passport is renewed, placing ongoing practical and emotional pressure on widowed parents.
Moving On and Wellbeing
Members have raised concerns about moving on after bereavement, along with the need for social prescribing and counselling in schools after parent death.
Our Goals & Actions
Our goals focus on building formal supports, improving access to guidance, and ensuring widowed and bereaved partners are represented in decisions that affect their lives.
Establish a National Widows Council
Create a formal body to signpost supports, represent widowed and bereaved partners, and help shape national policy and procedure.
Improve Access to Support
Ensure grief counselling, practical supports, and clearer personal guidance around entitlements are accessible to widowed partners and their children.
Social Welfare Reform
Press for reforms relating to payments for bereaved spouses and partners, including better clarity, flexibility, and fairness.
Join us in making a difference
Help us advocate for more compassionate systems, stronger supports, and meaningful recognition of widowed and bereaved partners in Ireland.