§ Mr. WattsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what changes she plans to the Discretionary Social Fund; and if she will make a statement. [32875]
§ Mr. DenhamI am pleased to announce that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will be introducing a special Social Fund measure to provide more explicit help in the form of Community Care Grants for homeless people setting up home.
Homelessness is a major cause of poverty and social exclusion. The Government want to take all possible steps to prevent people from falling through the net.
This change will give many vulnerable people a better chance of getting permanent accommodation and leading a normal life.
That is why we are extending the rules to include specific help for people setting up home as part of a planned resettlement programme.
In addition, the Secretary of State is introducing a number of minor amendments to discretionary Social Fund directions and guidance to take effect from 6 April 1998.
Details of these changes have been placed in the Library.