Example
C applied for a washing machine and single bed with mattress for her son.
The council declined the application on the basis that C's circumstances did not match any of the qualifying criteria for a grant. They noted C had received a washing machine from the fund in 2023 and the fund cannot award this item again. In relation to the bed, they assessed that this was required due to wear and tear and so the fund could not assist.
We reviewed the council's file and corresponded with C who explained that one of their children has received a health diagnosis that makes it difficult for them to leave the house to do laundry. C also noted their own health issues, including mobility problems. We were satisfied the exceptional pressure criteria was met and that C qualified for a grant.
Recommendations
- We instructed the council to award a washing machine and single bed with mattress, as these items met the high priority criteria.
Feedback for the council:
- The council did not take the health issues in the household into consideration.
- The council incorrectly noted that items cannot be replaced due to wear and tear or provided more than once.
We have asked the organisation to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one week.