Example
C requested we review the council's decision on their crisis grant application. C applied for funds after spending their income on clothing and travel costs for their grandchildren after social work had requested that they provide care for them.
The council initially declined the application, stating that C had previously applied for increased costs due to their grandchildren staying with them. At first tier, they assessed that C was at fault for their crisis.
We reviewed the council's file and corresponded with C and the social worker involved. We assessed that this application was different as C had been asked to provide care of their grandchildren as part of a social work arrangement pending a hearing. The previous circumstances were different. We deemed the situation exceptional and changed the council’s decision based on new information. We also provided feedback that the council failed to make appropriate enquiries for a robust decision.