Example
C’s representative applied for money for food and utilities after a delay in extending their immigration status had led to C’s family losing their right to work and access to public funds. They had made a new Universal Credit claim, however they had five weeks till their first payment.
The council awarded for 14 days. C’s representative requested a first tier review asking for the award to be extended, explaining that C was not entitled to Universal Credit advance. The first tier decision declined to review the award amount, stating that they could only make a 14 day award and that C must attend the Job Centre to request an advance.
We reviewed the council's file and spoke with C through their representative. We accepted that C was without funds until their first Universal Credit payment date and changed the council’s decision. We provided feedback about their decision letters.
Recommendations
- We instructed the council to make an award of £889.54 to cover food and utilities until C’s first Universal Credit payment, based on the amount requested by C.
Feedback for the council
- The council's decision notes should not contain statements relating to the dignity and respect of the applicant.
- Calculations for awards should include the correct number of dependants.
We have asked the council to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one working day.