Never done a CL for a telly before but I've a client on a residential rehab programme in receipt of IB. Real need for own tv (lots of extenuating circs) but excluded under Direction 23.2(d) "...a CL may not be awarded..." Am I wrong but doesn't the word 'may' mean there's possiblity of a payment?

The BBC guide to English useage says that might/may are often used interchangably nowadays. However, "might" suggests a possibility whereas "may" indicates a little more probability. I think "cannot" would put the mockers on it whereas "may not" allows a little chink of hope.
It can be a lonely life in the grammerwars.

Cheers Carole. I've spoken with an sfo to get her feelings on a review applic but she is adamant she would never award a tv. When he's on free time there's constant disagreements and hostilities in communal areas over the tv channels, if he goes out there's a hostel next door which houses old acquaintances who have offered him various substances. All this is tempting fate and he doesn't want to relapse. He thinks if he has a tv he could be safe and calm in his room. The sfo suggests he should ask for more medication instead (?!?!)
I think I'll go for it anyway and let the SFI decide.

I have recently been on a training course run by an SFI, who said that they may allow a grant/loan for a TV if there are extenuating circumstances such as your client's. It sounds like they are actaully quite balanced and will consider most things if a decent argument is put forward so I'd definitely give it a try.

Thanks Leo. This is a CL though as he's on IB. I've already put in the review request and also told them I intend to pursue to SFI if refused but it's the 'may not' wording in the list of exempt items which concerns me. It would be good result seeing as the SFO was adamant she "...would NEVER give a tv, especially on a Maundy Thursday..." and "...he could save up for a little radio and listen to R4 as it's a magazine programme...".

Call myself an advisor when I never even thought of that?? I'll tell him to put some of his £55.90 pw to one side on a regular basis.

No crisis loan for a TV, "...especially on a Maundy Thursday..."?

Too much lent, perhaps?

and i thought it was a day for giving alms to the poor or have I got the wrong day