Example
C applied for a community care grant for several items to set up their tenancy after being released from prison.
The council awarded some items but refused clothing, stating it did not meet the High Most Compelling (HMC) priority level since C had one set of clothes.
On review, we noted C applied within 10 days of release. We were satisfied that the request for clothing met the HMC priority level, viewing one set of clothing as inadequate. We therefore changed the decision to award clothing.
We have asked the organisation to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one week.
Recommendations
- We instructed the council to award £95.00 to purchase underwear, socks, t-shirts, a jumper, a coat, and a pair of jeans and joggers.
Feedback for the council
- The council were incorrect to assess that C's application for clothing did not meet High Most Compelling.
- The original decision was issued 3 working days later than the timescales set out in the guidance.