Agenda item

Paul Raynes (Head of Environment, Localism and Welfare) introduce the report which updated on the latest developments on welfare reform, including: Local Welfare Assistance fund; housing benefit administration subsidy; discretionary housing payment; and Universal Credit (UC). 

In the discussion that followed, Members made a number of comments, including:

·        With reference to the creation of the Single Fraud Investigation Service, concerns were expressed regarding the resourcing of the remaining non-benefit fraud cases which councils would continue to manage.

·        Members highlighted the need for a robust process to be put in place – including providing incentives to local authorities - to deal with cases where a UC recipient relocates to a local authority outside of the pilot areas. 

·        With reference to the number of UC pilots conducted, a Member suggested that the sector take a more robust approach in their discussion with Government regarding the role of local government in the UC delivery plans and emphasis the vital importance of data sharing.

·        In discussing recent welfare reform changes, concerns were expressed that homogenisation of welfare services would lead to less people centred provision. 

Decision

That Board noted the update and that their views inform the development of the Board’s welfare reform work programme.