Welfare fund could help families struggling after Storm Arwen devastation

LOW income households across the north-east impacted by costs associated to Storm Arwen may be able to benefit from the Scottish Welfare Fund.

A recent enquiry from Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Karen Adam made to the Scottish Parliament Information Service (SPICe) has revealed that constituents on low incomes could potentially receive aid from the fund as householders seek to recover from the storm's aftermath.

SPICe advised that residents could be eligible for the grant if “the storm has resulted in an immediate, short-term financial need that poses a risk to the wellbeing of an individual”, and that “eligibility for support will depend on the need itself and on the circumstances of the applicant.

There are some needs which are excluded from the fund such as repairs to properties maintained by local authorities or social landlords, debts and ongoing expenses. Awards are discretionary and applicants must be on a low income and must be unable to meet the need from other means.

Ms Adam, who was heavily involved in the community support response during Storm Arwen, is now encouraging people in her own constituency and across the north-east to apply for the financial grant scheme.

She said: “After an enormously difficult week for so many in the north-east, I am really pleased that the Scottish Government’s Welfare Fund is available for those who have been the worst impacted by Storm Arwen.

“I encourage everyone who fits the necessary criteria for a grant to apply for the Scottish Welfare Fund, it’s there to help in times of crisis like this for those hardest hit.

“During the storm, my team and I got stuck in and helped liaise with councils and organisations to organise water drops, food delivery, sourcing warmth or accommodation and most importantly, helping people reliant on life-saving equipment such as breathing apparatuses get the appropriate resources. My team and I continue to be on hand to help anyone impacted by Storm Arwen and who are in need so please get in touch with my office if I can be of any assistance at all.”

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