§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what instructions have been issued to local offices in Bradford regarding the consideration of applications for crisis loans from young single people; if he will ensure that such applications are dealt with immediately; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe guidance issued by the Secretary of State about considering applications for crisis loans is published in the social fund manual, a copy of which is in the Library.
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Region and Project Title Approved Cost1 Number of Places Capital Current Full-time Part-time Strathclyde Pre-School and Parent Provision, Fullarton, Irvine 8,800 18,480 — 20 Pre-Fives Braehead Primary School, Irvine 3,200 10,550 — 30 Pre-Five and Parent Provision, Irvine 3,328 10,340 — 40 Pre-Five and Parent Provision, Stanley Primary School, Ardrossan 8,490 22,340 — 30 Haycocks Primary School Nursery Class, Stevenson, Ayr 4,700 19,067 — 60 Three Towns Pre-Five Project (Saltcoats) 189,892 288,782 55 10 Local guidance concerning priorities to be met from the local loans budgets makes no differentiation between ages of applicants. In making decisions, social fund officers take into account the law, the Secretary of State's directions and guidance, and local managers' guidance on priorities, in the light of the individual applicant's needs and circumstances.
Applications satisfying the criteria for crisis loans are cleared on the day of receipt.