§ Ms ShortTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security in what circumstances participants on Government programmes including training for work and community action can obtain help from the social fund; and if he will make a statement. [15153]
§ Mr. Roger EvansPeople who were in receipt of income support prior to starting these programmes continue to be eligible to apply to the social fund. Such people will be eligible for awards of both community care grants and budgeting loans. People can apply to the social fund for crisis loans whether or not they are in receipt of an income-related benefit.
§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans the Government have to make social fund loans available for the purchase of gardening equipment, allotment rents and seed, so that people can begin to grow their own vegetables. [15262]
§ Mr. Roger EvansIn considering whether or not to make an award from the fund, social fund officers are required to take account of the nature, extent and urgency of the need. Although loans for gardening equipment are not excluded, social fund officers take account of all the individual circumstances surrounding each application, as 339W well as the priority guidance provided by the Secretary of State and the area social fund officer, when using their discretion to reach a decision.