Example
C, a representative, applied for a community care grant for several household items for A. A had to dispose of items following a deep clean of their home. A had struggled to maintain their tenancy due to severe mental health and substance use issues.
The council made an award in principle for a washing machine, bedroom and living room carpets and a mattress, pending the deep clean of the property. However, the council withdrew the award after discovering A had received earnings. At first tier review, the council assessed that A was not on a low income, despite receiving a qualifying benefit.
We reviewed the council's file and corresponded with C. We assessed that the eligibility criteria was met, as A was receiving a qualifying benefit and is therefore deemed to be on a low income, as set out in the guidance. We changed the council’s decision and asked them to award carpet for A’s living room and bedroom (the other items had already been sourced by C).
Recommendations
- Award A a bedroom and living room carpet.
Feedback for the council
- The information regarding low income was incorrectly interpreted.
- The decision letters were unclear, making it difficult for the applicant to understand the decision.
- The recording of their decision.
- The guidance was not followed regarding withdrawing the award.
We have asked the organisation to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one week.