GNWT releases What We Heard Report on Income Assistance Review

December 6, 2022

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has released its What We Heard Report on the Income Assistance Review. The GNWT is committed to improving the Income Assistance (IA) program through a review process that will provide meaningful, program level information to support program improvement and re-design.

Key stakeholders had the opportunity to provide their feedback on how the IA program could be improved to better support Northerners facing financial difficulties through virtual focus groups, online surveys and telephone interviews.

The What We Heard Report includes a summary of the feedback received throughout the engagement that took place in Spring 2022.  Feedback included increasing benefits as well as income exemptions, streamlining processes, re-examining how and why benefits may be suspended, integrating trauma-informed practices, reflecting Indigenous values, increasing outreach, and providing support for clients seeking employment.

The feedback will be used to inform changes to the Income Assistance program and to develop a new program for seniors and persons with disabilities.

Quote(s)

“The GNWT is committed to delivering an improved Income Assistance program that better meets the needs of residents, including seniors and persons with disabilities. The feedback from this engagement will help shape future changes to the program, ensuring residents are heard and supported.

– R.J. Simpson, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

Quick facts

• 363 individuals engaged through virtual focus groups, online surveys and telephone interviews.
• Results of the What We Heard Report will be used to inform the changes to the Income Assistance program to support vulnerable residents.

Related links

• What We Heard Report
• Income Assistance Review

For media requests, please contact:

Briony Grabke

Manager, Public Affairs and Communications

Department of Education, Culture and Employment

Government of the Northwest Territories

briony_grabke@gov.nt.ca

867-767-9352  Ext. 71073

NT5