The World Bank has recommended more improvements be undertaken by the Social Welfare Ministry as there are still a lot more needy people not being assisted under the ministry’s assistance program.

The Social Welfare Ministry has embarked on a reform program with technical assistance from the World Bank and AUSAID to refocus assistance towards the needy in the communities in a consultation workshop that is currently underway in Suva.

World Bank Social Protections senior economist Alex Ivashenco said based on their assessment, the ministry has been carrying out assistance programs for the poorest of the poor.

Ivashenco said however there are still improvements needed in providing a wider coverage in assisting the needy.