Issue - meetings

To note that the Welfare Reform Action 2012 abolishes the existing discretionary elements of the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) administered social fund and to approve to the introduction of the Southwark emergency support scheme replacing the DWP social fund’s crisis loans and community care grants.

To agree that Community Action Southwark lead on the management and delivery of grant item(s) for successful applications.

RESOLVED:

1.  That it be noted that the Welfare Reform Act 2012 abolishes the existing discretionary elements of the Department for Work & Pensions’ administered social fund.  The creation and delivery of a local scheme to be administered by councils takes effect from 1 April 2013, following receipt of a grant from central government.

2.  That the introduction of the Southwark emergency support scheme (SESS) be approved with effect from the 1 April 2013 replacing the DWP social fund’s crisis loans and community care grants and that Community Action Southwark (CAS) lead on the management and delivery of grant item(s) for successful applications to those most in need. 

3.  That the strategic director of finance and corporate services be provided with delegated responsibility to make any amendments to the application of the scheme following review and consultation. 

4.  That the strategic director of finance and corporate services set aside from within the welfare hardship fund to supplement the Southwark emergency support scheme (SESS) an amount of up to £400,000 in order to provide support for those households where the level of disability prevents temporary or full time employment.