The Secretary of State’s changes to the discretionary social fund, which took effect in the south-west region from 27 April 2009 and the east midlands region from 8 June 2009, will be partially extended to Glasgow from 27 July 2009.

The changes introduce a requirement for most customers to be interviewed at a local Jobcentre Plus office when they make a third or subsequent application for a crisis loan to cover living expenses.

During such an interview customers will be provided with a leaflet that contains details of local and national organisations that can provide money management advice. The leaflet has been placed in the Libraries of both Houses of Parliament and copies are also available in the Vote Office.