Example
C, who works for a support organisation, requested an independent review on behalf of their client (A). A had applied for a community care grant for several essential household items to help establish their new tenancy following a period of homelessness.
The council awarded some items but declined to provide carpets and curtains, assessing that these did not meet the ‘High Most Compelling’ priority rating.
We reviewed the council’s file and spoke with C. They explained that A has significant mobility difficulties, uses a stick for walking, and experiences light sensitivity linked to neurodiversity. We considered that these factors increased the priority of the requested items. As a result, we instructed the council to make an award for carpets and bedroom curtains.
Recommendation
- Award living room, bedroom and hallway carpet. Award bedroom curtains with pole.
Feedback for council
- The first tier decision maker should have made enquiries with the applicant to find out about their severity of the conditions mentioned in the first tier review request.
- The first tier decision was issued outwith the timescale set out in the guidance.