Example
C requested an independent review of the council's decision about their crisis grant application. C applied for money for food and utilities after stating that their money was stolen by their carer.
The council initially made an eight day award. However, C requested a first tier review on the basis that they did not consider the amount awarded was sufficient. The first tier decision maker declined to make a further award as when they contacted Police Scotland with the crime reference number provided by C, they could not match it to a theft.
We reviewed the council's file and spoke with C and Police Scotland. C provided us with a different reference number which Police Scotland matched to a theft. We determined the council should have given C the opportunity to respond to the conflicting information they received. We agreed that an award should be made and that the duration was appropriate. However, we took into account C's health condition which required them to eat a low fat, minimally processed diet. We assessed that an additional amount of £9 per week was required to meet the applicant’s need to purchase low fat options where required. We instructed the council to award this additional amount.