Written Question · S7W-03899 · Session 7
In light of reports that 35% of crisis grant applications resulted in refusals in 2025-26, what assessment it has made of whether crisis gr…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of reports that 35% of crisis grant applications resulted in refusals in 2025-26, what assessment it has made of whether crisis grant eligibility rules contribute to reliance on food banks.
The answer
The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that people experiencing a crisis can access support through the Scottish Welfare Fund (SWF). Accordingly, SWF Crisis Grants provide a safety net for people facing an immediate risk to their health or safety. We have not identified evidence demonstrating a direct causal link between Crisis Grant eligibility criteria and reliance on food banks.The most recent SWF data shows that the majority of Crisis Grant applications continue to result in awards, with grants helping households facing immediate financial crisis. Decisions are made by local authorities, who must apply the eligibility criteria set out in the SWF statutory guidance to ensure support is targeted at those in greatest need.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S7W-03899 by reference.