Example
C applied for assistance with living costs after a recent relationship breakdown. They reported spending their income on alcohol and drugs and were sofa surfing.
The council declined the application, stating that C was not on a low income and therefore did not meet the eligibility criteria.
We reviewed the council’s file and spoke with C. We confirmed their income was significantly above the local threshold and, while they were experiencing homelessness, this was not the primary reason for their crisis. We agreed with the council that the application did not meet the eligibility criteria.
C later requested reconsideration of our decision, citing section 7.14 of the guidance, which allows discretion in certain circumstances such as homelessness or domestic abuse. They explained that they had spent their remaining money on alcohol as a coping mechanism following the relationship breakdown. Taking into account the sudden and severe change in circumstances, we applied discretion and awarded £300 for the 22-day period, including a small additional amount for costs associated with maintaining access to their children.
Recommendations
- Award £300
Feedback for the council
- When assessing low income discretion can be applied in line with 7.14 of the guidance for situations like relationship breakdowns and associated difficulties.
- The council should refer to the low income thresholds in reaching their decision about low income.