Example
C applied for a community care grant to replace items in their property after their child vandalised their home. They applied for a double bed and mattress, a single bed and mattress, carpet for one bedroom, hall stairs and landing, a washing machine, a chest of drawers, a double bedding set, and redecoration costs.
The council declined the application because they could not verify the Police Scotland reference numbers that C supplied. Therefore, they assessed that C's circumstances did not match the qualifying criteria for a grant.
We reviewed the council's file and spoke with C. They did not know why the Police Scotland reference numbers were not recognised. However, they confirmed that the housing team were aware of the damage and had already carried out some repairs to the property. We spoke with C's housing officer and local neighbourhood team and were satisfied that the incident occurred as described. Therefore, we were satisfied that the application met the qualifying criteria related to exceptional pressure.
Recommendations
- Award C a double bed, a single bed, a washing machine, carpet for one room, hall and stairs, a chest of drawers and redecoration costs. C had sourced some of the items themselves, so we agreed actual cost reimbursement for the beds. We assessed that two thirds of the flooring costs could be awarded, as flooring for an additional room was included on the flooring invoice. We also calculated an award of £130.00 in respect of redecorating costs and that the council should provide a washing machine.
Feedback for the council
- The council did not make sufficient follow-up enquiries based on the information provided on the application about the applicant’s circumstances.
We have asked the organisation to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one week.