An online system is being developed to allow residents to apply for public assistance programmes without visiting the Department of Social Development.
A multidisciplinary team from the United Nations’ children’s agency UNICEF visited Anguilla last week to help finalise the system and prepare social workers for its implementation.
Social development minister Shellya Rogers-Webster announced the project in a government press conference on 12 October.
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“The plan is to automate and digitise the application process for some of the public assistance programmes at social development,” she said.
“As it currently stands, if you want to access any of the Department of Social Development’s assistance programmes, you have to physically go in person, fill out your paperwork and documentation.”
Rogers-Webster stressed that paper-based applications will remain available for people who are less comfortable using technology.
“However, we are introducing a new component that allows persons who are comfortable using the digital space to be able to apply from the comfort of your computer,” she said.
The minister said the visiting team worked with members of the Ministry of Social Development and Education and the Department of Social Development on implementation, readiness and finalisation.
“They reviewed the status of the online form and any outstanding issues arising from testing, and they agreed on final adjustments that would have been required,” she said.
Rogers-Webster added that the UNICEF visitors provided practical training and a refresher support for social workers and other personnel who will be involved in data collection.
This includes hands-on use of the online platform, troubleshooting any outstanding operational challenges, and field implementation and beneficiary outreach.
The mission concluded with a joint review of the process and agreement on a “clear and time-bound roadmap” for the remaining activities.
“We recognise that it is important for us to to make access to our services at the social development as accessible as possible,” Rogers-Webster said.
The Department of Social Development provides social services, financial assistance and safeguarding support to individuals and families. It operates under the Ministry of Social Development and Education.
