Demand projections, grant receivable and use of reserves.

The Director of Finance reported upon the latest position regarding the amounts held in the Housing Benefit provision and reserve and recommended the release of £1.5 million to the General Fund Balance. The report also set out the projected Benefits budget requirements for 2010-11.

RESOLVED: That

(1)  having regard to the risk involved, the sum of £1.5 million of the Housing Benefit reserve and provision be returned to the General Fund Balance; and

(2)  having regard to the significant increase in Housing and Council Tax Benefit claimants and the improvements to maximise Benefits Subsidy, the net increase of £1,170,000 million be included within the Council budget for 2010/11.