The Rural Dweller Scheme (RDS)
A Part Time Work Opportunity for Rural Residents
The Rural Dweller Scheme is a new pilot programme based on the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). It offers part-time, paid work to people living in rural areas of County Louth, while supporting local community and environmental projects.
The scheme is designed for people who are currently receiving certain social welfare payments and would like to take part in meaningful work close to home, without losing their welfare entitlement.
What’s Involved?
If you join the Rural Dweller Scheme, you will:
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Work 19.5 hours per week
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Take part in community-based work, such as:
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Environmental and village maintenance
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Caretaking and upkeep of community facilities
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Supporting local community groups and services
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Continue to receive your social welfare payment, plus an extra weekly top-up, just like the Rural Social Scheme. Minimum payment is €286.50 per week.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for the Rural Dweller Scheme if you:
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✔ Live in a rural area of County Louth
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✔ Are between 50 and 66 years of age
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✔ Are currently receiving a qualifying social welfare payment (see list below)
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✔ Are available to work 19.5 hours per week
You do not need to be a farmer or fisher to apply, and you do not need a herd number or fishing licence.
Qualifying Social Welfare Payments
To take part in the Rural Dweller Scheme, you must be receiving one of the following social welfare payments, the same as those used for the Rural Social Scheme:
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Jobseeker’s Allowance
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Jobseeker’s Transitional Payment
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Disability Allowance
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One-Parent Family Payment
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Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s Pension
(Contributory or Non-Contributory) -
State Pension (Non-Contributory)
(including Increase for a Qualified Adult) -
Farm Assist
👉 Please note: Jobseeker’s Benefit does not qualify for this scheme.
How Long Does the Scheme Last?
The Rural Dweller Scheme is currently running as a pilot programme with a limited number of places available. It started in January 2026.
Places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility.
Interested? Get in Touch
If you think this scheme might be right for you, or if you’d like to learn more, contact Derbhille and she will be happy to talk you through the scheme, check your eligibility, and explain the next steps.
For further information on the
Rural Dweller Scheme please contact
+353 87 2592098