I have a client, 20, on higher rate IB, expecting her first child, living alone. Hence no entitlement to IS hence she can't apply for the SSMG yet. Once the baby is born, she will of course become entitled, from her CTC claim.

However, there are naturally all sorts of things she needs to buy before the birth, and I have found that the rather leisurely approach of the Social Fund means the SSMG may not turn up for 2-3 weeks after the birth.

Any ideas / experiences ?

I had thought about a crisis loan. It also occurred to me that in theory she could go onto JSA for just long enough to claim the SSMG or a CCG for non-maternity costs. But this second idea, in particular, strikes me as quite silly. I'm probably going to apply for charitable support for the time being.

Thanks!