Example
C applied for money for food as they were homeless and awaiting their first payment of Universal Credit.
The council declined the application as C had received a previous award in 28 days that had not lasted the award period. C requested a first tier review and the original decision was changed, awarding the amount C requested (£300).
C asked for a review stating the amount awarded was not enough for their needs.
We reviewed the council's file and spoke with C. We determined that it was appropriate to award C a discretionary additional amount based on additional costs they described as a result of living on the streets (not being able to store food, expenses for showering and laundry costs). We changed the council's decision and awarded an additional £150 to cover these costs.
Recommendations
- We instructed the council to make an award of £150 to cover food until C’s first payment of Universal Credit.
Feedback for the council
- The original decision maker should have contacted the applicant to find out why their original award did not last.
- The first tier decision maker should have given feedback to the original decision maker and outlined why they disagreed with the decision in their notes.
We have asked the council to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one working day.