Can anyone assist with this - my client was rehoused from a hostel for the homeless, where she'd been for 2 years. There was a resettlement programme .Applied for CCG, some of which was refused. Some items granted due to planned programme of resettlement rule- we are now at the IRS level and the inspector has requested further information.

1. Inspector has asked for details of the resettlement programme as if it is continuing - the programme existed while the client was in the hostel but there has been minimal follow up since then. Is this likely to be a problem?

2. CCG's refused for washing machine and fridge, amongst other things. Client used part of her award to purchase these items as she considered these essential. Part of our review request includes the refusal of an award for these items. Inspector has asked for details of how the award was actually spent. Could the inspector say that there is no need now for the fridge and washing machine?

Thanks

In previous lives, I worked as a hostel manager and in tenancy support and would normally advise people that any request for washing machines and fridges in CCG apps would be refused UNLESS there were particular medical needs for having them. This never stopped me requesting them (and doesn't now) but I would never expect them to be awarded. (I was once advised that if there was a medical reason for needing a fridge the local social fund office's policy was that this should be provided by the NHS!)

Having a resettlement programme which doesn't include ongoing initial support once someone moves into their tenancy might be a drawback - how minimal is minimal follow up?

My guess is that the inspector could now say there's no need for a fridge or washing machine but as I wouldn't expect them to necessarily have made an award for these anyway the loss might be the other things the money was awarded for.

Hope this helps.

Mairi

Hi, the planned program of resettlement seems to have already been accepted by Social Fund so I don't think it will be a problem. Also, the fact that you are supporting and advising with benefits can be put forward as part of her onging support in resettlement. If she has obtained the items that you want a reveiw on then the need has been met and the IRS are unlikely to make an award for those particular items unfortunately.

Thanks for your replies - I was concerned that the IRS might decide that the award made did not qualify at all under the resettlement provisions, due to the lack of ongoing support.