During July we
- responded to 65 enquiries
- made 54 decisions
- 10 community care grants
- 44 crisis grants
- upheld 7 (70%) of community care grants and 8 (18%) of crisis grants
- signposted an additional 55 applicants to other sources of assistance. 80% were calling us instead of their local council in error and a further 13% reported accessibility issues contacting their council as there was no freephone number
- received 13 enquiries from council staff seeking advice
Engagement
This month we are hosting workshops with council staff involved in training, focusing on accessibility, written communication, and decision recording. This work, which forms part of the Scottish Welfare Fund Review Action Plan, aims to support improvements in practice. We are looking forward to engaging with colleagues in this important initiative.
Case studies
Crisis grant calculations – 2025 guidance
C applied for support with food, travel, and energy debts, explaining that a recent relationship breakdown had made budgeting difficult. They reported a decline in their mental health and acknowledged having used some funds for gambling. C stated they had no money available until their next benefit payment.
At initial decision-making stage the council requested bank statements and based on the information provided, refused an award as they noted that C had sufficient funds. At first tier review, C provided up-to-date statements which confirmed they had no money available. The council changed the decision and awarded £150.00 for food costs. They explained to C that travel and debt were excluded from the fund and not something that could be awarded.
We reviewed the council's file and contacted C. We reiterated that the fund could not assist with debts and travel costs. We asked C about their food costs and why the award of £150.00 was not sufficient. We noted that the council had awarded less than the Universal Credit essentials rate, but no reason was detailed for this. C explained they had to purchase baby milk and nappies and that the cost of food was expensive. We changed the council's decision as we noted that they had not followed the guidance when making the award. We awarded C the amount recommended by the SWF guidance.
Recommendations
- Make a further award of £149.30 to cover C's food costs for their family until their next Universal Credit payment date.
Feedback for the council
- They did not take into account C's circumstances and ensure the award made met their needs in line with section 7.23 of the guidance.
We have asked the council to provide us with confirmation that the award was made within one working day.
You can find more examples in the searchable case directory on our website.