Equality Impact Assessment - Local Housing Allowance

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Function being Assessed
Implementation of Local Housing Allowance April 2008

Is this a new function or a review of an existing function?
New Function

What are the aims/purpose of the function?

To assess housing benefit using a new methodology. The legislation requires that all claimants should be paid direct rather than payment going to the landlord.  The concern here is that those who are vulnerable and disabled may have difficulties coping financially and fall into rent arrears which may lead to eviction.

Is the function designed to meet specific needs such as the needs of minority ethnic groups, older people, disabled people etc?

It is designed to meet the needs of those who need financial support to meet their housing costs.

What information has been gathered on this function? (Indicate the type of information gathered e.g. statistics, consultation, other monitoring information)? Attach a summary or refer to where the evidence can be found.

It is difficult to establish how many of those cases currently being paid direct to their landlord will fall into this group as data has not been gathered on this area. It is also felt that it would not be productive to survey customers in this area.

Does your analysis of the information show different outcomes for different groups (higher or lower uptake/failure to access/receive a poorer or inferior service)? If yes, indicate which groups and which aspects of the policy or function contribute to inequality?

From the knowledge of those current benefit claimants it is felt that the those claimants with a mental impairment may be more vulnerable.

Are these differences justified (e.g. are there legislative or other constraints)? If they are, explain in what way.

These differences are not justified.

What action needs to be taken as a result of this Equality Impact Assessment to address any detrimental impacts or meet previously unidentified need? Include here any reasonable adjustments for access by disabled people. Include dates by which action will be taken. Attach an action plan if necessary.

A direct payment policy will be drawn up to identify the vulnerable groups to provide a safety net for these claimants to ensure their home is not put at risk due to the implementation of Local Housing Allowance. This will be consulted on with Housing, Social Care, CAB and Age Concern as well as Landlords and Members.

When will you evaluate the impact of action taken? Give review dates.

Assessment completed by:

Name: Mary Tam

Service: Revenue and Benefit Service

Date: February 2008