Decision details

To note the pilot outcomes and review and agree to continue with scheme beyond the 1 year pilot

RESOLVED:  That

(1)               the ‘Local Welfare Provision’ funding be utilised by operating the Emergency Relief Scheme for a second year 2014/15;

(2)               the changes to the Help Scheme Policy be agreed and adopted.

Reason for Decision:  The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) allocated funding to all Local Authorities to provide a ‘Local Welfare Provision’ as a result of the changes to the Social Fund included within the Welfare Reform Act 2012.  Further to close partnership working with a multi-agency group and public consultation, Harrow Council developed the Emergency Relief Scheme which was piloted for the first year of operation to give the Council the opportunity to understand need within the borough. 

The pilot Emergency Relief Scheme had now been reviewed through consultation with Emergency Relief Scheme staff, referral partners and a sample of users of the Scheme.  The feedback received throughout this process had helped to shape the changes to the proposed Scheme for the second year of operation - 2014/15. 

The DWP had not confirmed the funding allocation post for 2014/15 and therefore the Emergency Relief Scheme had been redesigned to continue for one year in its current form and to be sufficiently flexible to cope with changes in programme funding in future years. 

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:  As set out in the report.

Conflict of Interest relating to the matter declared by Cabinet Member / Dispensation Granted:  None.