Example
Mr C applied for a crisis grant after losing his wallet on the bus. He was therefore seeking assistance with living expenses until his next payment of benefit.
The council declined his application as Mr C had received an award for losing money a year previously, and they did not consider that it was within the bounds of possibilities' to lose a wallet twice within that period. Following the applicant's first tier review request, the council upheld their original decision. Mr C then applied to SPSO for an independent review of the council's decision.
We considered the facts and circumstances of the case, and spoke with the applicant to verify his version of events. Overall, we disagreed with the assessment that it was outwith the bounds of possibilities to lose a wallet twice within a 13 month period; particularly given the fact that the applicant was facing what he described as a 'hectic lifestyle' including being homeless, having previously had substance misuse issues, and was also suffering from depression and anxiety. We assessed that the council had incorrectly interpreted the available information and instructed them to make an award of £33.00. We also provided feedback to the council that their decision letters and case notes were not in line with the SWF guidance.