BANGKOK, Thailand – The National Commission for Promotion and Development of Disabled Persons’ Life Quality has approved a proposal to increase the monthly disability allowance from 800 baht to 1,000 baht. The increase would apply to individuals with disabilities under the age of 18 who do not receive State Welfare Card benefits and is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet for consideration. The commission also approved changes to the disability caregiver system, allowing relatives and family members to become officially recognized caregivers after completing required training and certification. Under the proposed framework, certified caregivers would receive compensation of 60 baht per hour for up to 6 hours per day and 30 days per month, for a maximum of 10,800 baht per month.
Deputy Prime Minister and Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Minister Yodchanan Wongsawat said the measure would provide support to family members who reduce their working hours or leave their jobs to care for those with disabilities at home. The government now plans to place greater attention on disability employment within public-sector agencies and encourage compliance with employment quotas and legal requirements. Kantapong Rangsesawang, permanent secretary for Social Development and Human Security, said both proposals are expected to reach the Cabinet this month. If additional procedural steps are required, consideration could be delayed until early July. (NNT)
