Decision details

Recommendations approved.

Reasons for recommendations

1.    The distribution of funds at the beginning of the financial year is the most efficient way of assisting residents with annual bills.

2.    Increasing the mandatory payment of £25 ensures that funds are used to assist the financially vulnerable, who are those impacted most by rising bills therefore fulfilling the intention of the funding allocation.

3.    Limiting the amount and number of discretionary awards ensures that financial assistance is available to more claimants throughout the year.

Other options considered and rejected

Other options have been considered but have been rejected due to the restrictions of the software solution used to make payments.