Had a conversation with a worker from Bolton DWP, apparently Chorlton are so busy they are picking up some of their work. She rang me about a young mum that I have assisted in making a claim. The conversation went like this..
Curtains? no they are not essential you can put newspaper up or use windowlene to white them out (think you have to be over 40 to understand that one!)
Carpet? No well thats not essential
Washer? well my mum used to wash in the bath
Fridge ? No
She went on to tell me that they have spent over half their money in the first third of the year so are having to be more strict.only allowing beds, cooking facility & plates and pans ,no curtains,bedding, towels,carpets,sofas etc..
So even though I explained she had to move because of the welfare of her children and Social Services are involved, it looks like she is getting a safety gate and a fireguard !

Carpets are not essential! They are if passers by can see in and ‘invade’ your privacy. Newspapers /windolene! This is not the 1930’s for God’s sake!!

Carpets! It all depends on the facts of the case. The health and safety of the children for a start.

Washing machine. Traditionally a refusal has usually been defended on the ground that if you can use a launderette then the item would not be granted. Again, it is usually not that quite simple but at least it is not the “let them eat cake” type of remark that “well my mum used to wash in the bath” is, which betrays a complete high handed indifference to those in need.

This is the type of DWP officer that historically has got them, in all their previous incarnations, such a bad name. I have come across hundreds of these types of people both personally and professionally since I left school in 1975 and had to sign on. She should be moved immediately to some hole in the corner position, far away from the public or decision-making, where she can do as little harm as possible

That first "carpets" should read "curtains".

Update ....she did in fact receive £38 ! I claimed two grants on the same day, both young mums, both having to move to more appropriate accommodation, this mum has 3yr old and new baby, other mum has 1 yr old, both had CCG for household goods about 2 yrs ago. so very similar circs,other mum got £600! Needeless to say I have appealed