Example
C applied for a community care grant for kitchen lino, a single bed base, single mattress, wardrobe, an electric oven, a double quilt, pillows, bedding and clothing. They explained that they had lost their job due to poor health and suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and crushed discs in their back. C also explained that one of their three children had returned to live with them after a relationship breakdown with their father.
The council assessed that C was eligible for a grant, met the qualifying criteria and the necessary priority for an award of some items. They awarded a single bed base and mattress. All other items were refused and the council explained that clothing and bedding were excluded. At first tier review, the council changed the decision and awarded £70.00 for clothing and a single quilt. All other items were refused at priority.
C asked us to review the council’s decision to not award an electric oven. We reviewed the council's file and spoke with C. They explained the impact their health issues have on their ability to cook and that only having a hob restricts their diet. We also took into consideration that C is part of a large family and not having an oven means meal preparation is challenging. Based on the available information, we disagreed with the council’s priority assessment and deemed an oven met high priority.
Recommendations
- Award C an electric oven.
Feedback for the council
- The council take not take into account all the available information when assessing priority.
- The council’s decision making notes did not provide enough information in relation to the qualifying criteria.
We have asked the organisation to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one week.