Benefit reforms blamed for rise in welfare funding requests

Angry councillors have slammed the UK Government over the lack of money available to support vulnerable people.
By Drew Sandelands
Published 18th Feb 2019, 07:01 BST
Updated 18th Feb 2019, 08:06 BST
(Photo: John Devlin)(Photo: John Devlin)
(Photo: John Devlin)

Benefits reforms are being blamed for a rise in requests for welfare funding in East Renfrewshire.

Council chiefs have approved an extra £50,000 to combat a shortfall in Scottish Welfare funding, caused by increasing calls for help.

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But they say responsibility for the issue lies with Prime Minister Theresa May’s Government.

Labour councillor Alan Lafferty said: “It’s an absolute disgrace adequate provision is not being made available from central government.

“I welcome the proposal, it’s necessary but it’s regrettable it is left to councils to deal with the problem.”

Figures from the Scottish Government reveal from 2017 to 2018 there was a 25% rise in East Renfrewshire residents applying to the Scottish Welfare fund, which was set up to tackle the impact of welfare reform.

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These applications are for crisis grants, which provide a safety net in a disaster or emergency, and community care grants, which help people set up to live independently.

Council leader Tony Buchanan said: “I think it’s right we have money in place to support the most vulnerable in society.

“We’re aware Universal Credit has caused significant problems for many people.

“It’s unfortunate we’re in the position to have to mitigate it, rather than central government.

“It’s vital we take these decisions.”

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SNP councillor Caroline Bamforth added: “I think it’s unfortunate we have to fund these awful Tory policies that are detrimental to the most vulnerable.”

Between April and December 2018, Scottish Welfare fund spend in East Renfrewshire sits at just over £240,000.

This includes 242 community care grants, at an average of £887, and 344 crisis grants, averaging £74 each.

In a report to cabinet, the council’s deputy chief executive Caroline Innes said: “The full impact of welfare reform is now being realised across Scotland.

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“The Scottish Welfare Fund is becoming an increasingly important source of support for vulnerable individuals

“Based on projections of increased demand to year-end, the expected shortfall for 2018/19 is currently £41,921.

“To allow for any unexpected demand, Cabinet approval is sought for up to £50,000.”

SNP councillor Colm Merrick said: “We’re going to have to top it up, we can’t run short. These people are in desperation.

“I’m all for upping the fund.”