O’Shea Highlights Support for Nearly 30,000 Cork Residents Receiving Living Alone Allowance

Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul O’Shea has welcomed confirmation that 29,537 people in Cork are currently benefiting from the Living Alone Allowance, describing the payment as an important support that helps older people and vulnerable individuals maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes.

Figures provided by the Department of Social Protection show that, as of the end of May 2026, almost 30,000 Cork residents were receiving the Living Alone Allowance, an additional weekly payment available to people who live alone and receive qualifying social welfare payments.

Deputy O’Shea said the figures demonstrate the vital role the allowance plays in supporting people across Cork, particularly older citizens.

“The Living Alone Allowance provides valuable additional support to thousands of people across Cork who are living independently. For many recipients, particularly pensioners, it helps meet the additional costs associated with maintaining a household on their own and provides reassurance that their circumstances are recognised by the social welfare system.”

The majority of recipients are people aged over 66 who are receiving a pension from the Department of Social Protection. However, the allowance is also available to people under 66 who live alone and are in receipt of Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension, Blind Pension or Incapacity Supplement.

Deputy O’Shea said it is important that anyone who may qualify for the payment is aware of their entitlement.

“Many people may not realise that the Living Alone Allowance is available not only to pensioners but also to those receiving certain disability-related payments. It is important that people check their eligibility and ensure they are receiving all of the supports to which they are entitled.”

The allowance is generally applied for when an individual makes a claim for a qualifying social welfare payment. Applicants are asked at that stage whether they wish to apply for the Living Alone Allowance, while existing recipients are encouraged to notify the Department if their household circumstances change.

Deputy O’Shea also welcomed the range of information channels available to help people access the support, including the Department of Social Protection website, www.mywelfare.ie and Citizens Information.

“Supporting people to remain in their own homes and communities for as long as possible is an important objective of Government policy. The Living Alone Allowance is one of a number of measures that help people maintain their independence and quality of life, and I am pleased to see that almost 30,000 people in Cork are benefiting from this support.”

Deputy O’Shea encouraged anyone who believes they may qualify for the allowance to contact the Department of Social Protection or seek advice through Citizens Information to ensure they are receiving all supports available to them.