Does the Council use the Department of Education formula without alteration in means testing payments for Families with Special Guardianship Orders?
No.
If the formula has altered what are the changes?
Devon County Council (DCC) has reduced the amount of living costs to be excluded from 125% to 100% of the Income support rate for the family.
Devon had introduced a 20%, 25%, 30% disregard dependent on individual’s housing situations.
Is Disability Living Allowance payments included in the means test?
Yes, in line with the government formula.
Please note that DCC is currently reviewing its policy on Special Guardianships, which includes the financial support provided. The Department of Education formulae and the Special Guardianship regulations have been carefully considered in the assessment process.