Example
C applied for a Community Care Grant to support setting up a tenancy, having been rehoused on medical grounds.
The council declined the application on the basis that C had purchased the items during the 15-day decision making period.
We reviewed the council’s file and contacted C. Although the items were purchased within the decision-making period, this was done after C had been advised that a decision could take up to three months. Given the urgency of the move, we considered it reasonable for C to proceed with the purchases in these circumstances. We therefore determined that reimbursement was appropriate.
Recommendation
- Reimburse the cost of high priority items, including flooring, removal costs, a fridge, freezer, and hob.
Feedback for the council
- The council should have considered the detriment incurred by the applicant.
- The original decision was issued significantly outwith the timescales set out in the guidance.
We asked the council to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one week.