AQW 53746/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 05/10/2026
Answered On Date: 13/10/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any safeguards that are in place to minimise the need for applicants with psychological injuries to repeatedly recount traumatic experiences during the assessment and determination of applications to the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme.

Answer:

The Victims’ Payments Board (VPB) and Capita have robust safeguarding measures in place and there is mandatory trauma-informed training that is delivered to all staff and Board members who have contact with applicants.

The Scheme recognises the difficulty applicants may face in recounting injuries and incidents. Where possible, Capita will conduct paper-based assessments, with the Clinical Assessor obtaining supporting evidence from relevant medical providers as necessary.

Where the evidence does not clearly establish a link and an independent psychological assessment is needed, the psychological Assessment Provider reviews all relevant information and safeguarding concerns to determine whether a paper-based diagnosis is sufficient or whether a face-to-face or virtual assessment is required.

If a further assessment is recommended, the VPB Administration team will seek the applicant’s consent and offer the option of a companion attending. If consent is not provided, the report will be completed using the available evidence.