Mr Roger Godsiff – 2014 Parliamentary Question to the Department for Work and Pensions

The below Parliamentary question was asked by Mr Roger Godsiff on 2014-03-07.

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will assess the potential for improved administration and awareness of the short-term benefit advances scheme to affect demand for food banks; and if he will make a statement.

Esther McVey

DWP does make claimants aware of relevant support services, but will always consider whether it has provision first.

Short Term Benefit Advance awards are available to those entitled to them prior to initial payment of benefit, almost 100% of applications are routinely processed within 24 hours.