§ Ms KeebleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if she will make a statement on the outcome of the review of Social Fund provision for victims of disasters, with special reference to flood victims in Northampton. [51162]
§ Mr. DenhamWe have now completed the review. It identified inconsistencies in the interpretation of current guidance. In particular, on some occasions, too little weight was given to the exceptional stress caused to families by natural disasters. As a result, we have issued a bulletin to Benefits Agency Social Fund staff today, giving advice on a more flexible interpretation of existing Secretary of State's guidance covering the conditions for award of community care grants. This advice will be put into effect immediately.
Persons whose applications have already been decided may, if they remain dissatisfied, seek a review, or a further review where a review has already taken place. Although the primary legislation governing the Social Fund is not being changed, and all awards will have to fall within Social Fund rules, we anticipate that this will improve the extent of help from the Social Fund given to all victims of disasters, including, of course, people affected by floods in Northampton.