Application process
The different stages of the application process, timescales, and what to do if you would like to withdraw your application.
The Islington Support Payment Scheme has four stages:
- completion and submission of an application form by the applicant;
- confirmation checks to corroborate the identity of the applicant and to check for forgery and any adverse issues;
- assessment of the application;
- a fourth stage may be required in which the application is referred to the Independent Appeal Panel in the event that the threshold to make a support payment has not been met at stage 3 or that adverse issues are identified.
Administration of the scheme
The scheme is administered by the Support Payment Team. Those involved will treat all matters relating to your application with the strictest confidence and include:
Case officers
Staff recruited by the council specifically for the administration of the scheme and who will be the first point of contact throughout the application process. They can help with questions regarding:
- how to complete an application form
- obtaining supporting documentation
- signposting to support
Independent service provider (ISP)
DAC Beachcroft LLP is the independent organisation with who will assess and decide the applications.
Independent Appeal Panel (IAP)
The panel will receive referred applications where the independent service provider has not been able to accept them. The panel consists of three people independent of the council or the independent service provider, who have expertise in a combination of legal services, social care or the community or charity sector.
How you will be notified of the decision
You will receive written confirmation as soon as a decision has been reached.
Time it takes for accepted applications
| Stage of process | Amount of time |
|---|---|
| Register application | 1 week |
| Request and collect care file | 3 weeks |
| Scan and upload applicant file | 1 week |
| Send to independent solicitors | 1 week |
| Additional information to independent solicitors (from applicant or medical professional, if needed) | 1 week |
| Independent assessment | 8 weeks |
| Bank verification | 2 working days |
| Funds to clear in applicant account | 5 working days |
Withdrawing your application
You can withdraw your application at any point prior to a support payment being made. This can be done by notifying the Support Payment Team team in writing by email SupportPayment@islington.gov.uk or post to Islington Support Payment Scheme, 222 Upper Street, N1 1XR.
Applicant capacity
It is important that an applicant who lacks the mental capacity required legally to run their personal affairs has appropriate personal representation to support them in applying for the scheme. If it appears at any stage that the applicant lacks this capacity, the support team will facilitate the appointment of an appropriate personal representative for the applicant, referring the matter to the Court of Protection if required. The application cannot be progressed further until this is in place.
Legal
The scheme is designed to be accessible without the need for legal representation. It does not, therefore, allow for payment of legal or other representatives' fees. In the event that an applicant obtains legal representation in relation to an application, Islington Council will not be responsible for any legal costs incurred by the applicant.