Issue details - Social Fund Support

Social Fund Support

As part of the Governments Welfare Reforms funds previously used as part of the Social Fund for Crisis Loans (e.g. for white goods or due to loss of money) and Community Care Grants (e.g. costs of moving from care to the community) will be transferred from the Dept of Work and Pensions (DWP) to Local Authorities from April 2013. Local Authorities will be able to use the Social Fund for Crisis Loans and Community Care Grants as they see fit to deliver some kind of welfare assistance programme for the most vulnerable in the community.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: High level of public interest;

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Decision due: 27 Sep 2012 by Council

Lead member: Executive Lead for Finance and Audit

Lead director: Charles Uzzell

Contact: Paul Looby, Executive Head of Finance Email: paul.looby@torbay.gov.uk.

Consultation process

Meetings, circulation of papers etc

Consultees

Key Stakeholders

Reason for inclusion in Forward Plan: To provide a high standard, cost effective service, meeting the needs of all vulnerable groups. Retaining staff with redeployment opportunities.

Key Risks: Level of grant funding is not yet known. Demand for discretionary payments may be high and set to increase under Welfare Reforms.

If you want to make representations contact:: Linda Owen, telephone (01803) 207572, email linda.owen@torbay.gov.uk, address Torbay Council, Town Hall, Castle Circus, Torquay, TQ1 3DR

Agenda items

27/09/2012 - Council Social Fund Support 27/09/2012