Issue - meetings

This report examines the performance, and demand for the York Financial Assistance Scheme in the first year of operation. Members are asked to note this performance and consider the impact of reduced funding for 2015/16.

Resolved:  That Cabinet agree to:

(i)           Note the performance of the York Financial Assistance Scheme (YFAS) following the first year of operation.

(ii)          Give commitment to maintaining the York Financial Assistance Scheme funding at its current levels (inclusive of grant) and considering in principle (subject to the full budget approval), the use of additional council tax from technical changes introduced on 1 April 2014 being directed towards the YFAS scheme.

Reason:     To ensure Cabinet can properly plan for future financial pressures relating to the York Financial Assistance Scheme.

Consideration was given to a report which informed Members of progress in delivering the financial inclusion work of the Financial Inclusion Steering Group. The report focussed on York’s Financial Assistance Scheme and provided details of the performance and demand for the Scheme during its first year of operation.

The Scheme had been set up to provide emergency and community assistance for residents and Council had agreed to provide additional finance for the Scheme, during 2013/14 and 2014/15, following transfer of funding from the Department for Works and Pensions (DWP). It was noted that the Scheme was well used and that the DWP had confirmed that funding for the scheme would cease from 2015/16 although a final decision on the implications of this would be made as part of the Council’s Budget in February.

The Cabinet Member highlighted the growing need for the scheme and referred to key changes which had taken place in co-locating advisers from a number of agencies within West Offices to provide a joined up approach for applicants. Members endorsed the significant work involved and expressed their support in continuation of the scheme.

Resolved:  That Cabinet agree to:

(i)           Note the performance of the York Financial Assistance Scheme (YFAS) following the first year of operation.

(ii)          Give commitment to maintaining the York Financial Assistance Scheme funding at its current levels (inclusive of grant) and considering in principle (subject to the full budget approval), the use of additional council tax from technical changes introduced on 1 April 2014 being directed towards the YFAS scheme. ^1.

Reason:     To ensure Cabinet can properly plan for future financial pressures relating to the York Financial Assistance Scheme.