Eligibility Policy for Beneficiaries
1. Introduction
The Beyond Boundaries Foundation (hereafter referred to as "the Charity") is dedicated to providing complementary therapies and techniques to vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals. This policy outlines the criteria and procedures for selecting eligible beneficiaries, ensuring compliance with UK law and the guidelines set forth by the UK Charity Commission.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish a fair, transparent, and consistent process for assessing eligibility for the Charity’s services, aimed at relieving suffering and supporting the rehabilitation of individuals' physical, mental, and emotional health.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals seeking support from the Charity, including those referred by healthcare professionals, social workers, and community organisations.
4. Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for support, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Vulnerability and Disadvantage: Applicants must demonstrate that they are vulnerable or disadvantaged, which may include, but is not limited to, individuals facing financial hardship, mental health challenges, physical disabilities, or social isolation.
• Health Assessment: A letter from a GP or a qualified health professional may be required to confirm that the applicant is fit to receive complementary therapies and that such support is appropriate for their needs. In suitable cases, this requirement may also be fulfilled by a social worker or a qualified local authority employee.
• Alignment with Charity Objectives: The applicant’s needs must align with the Charity’s mission to relieve suffering and support rehabilitation through complementary therapies/techniques.
• Commitment to Engagement: Applicants must demonstrate a willingness to engage with the therapies provided and actively participate in their rehabilitation process.
5. Application Process
• Referral Submission: Referrals can be made by the individual seeking support or by a third party, including healthcare professionals or community organisations. All referrals must include relevant information regarding the applicant’s circumstances and needs.
• Assessment Review: The assessment committee, comprising the CEO and 2 trustees, will review all referrals in accordance with the Charity’s decision-making policy. This review will include an evaluation of the information provided and may involve follow-up communication with the applicant or referring party.
• Decision Notification: Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application, and feedback will be provided where appropriate. The Charity aims to communicate decisions in a timely manner.
6. Confidentiality and Data Protection
The Charity is committed to protecting the confidentiality of applicants and will handle all personal information in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Information will only be shared with relevant parties as necessary for the assessment process.
7. Review and Appeals
Applicants who are not selected for support may request a review of their application. The Charity will establish an appeals process to ensure fairness and transparency in decision-making.
8. Compliance
This policy is in compliance with UK law and the guidelines set forth by the UK Charity Commission. The Charity will regularly review and update this policy to ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness.
9. Conclusion
The Beyond Boundaries Foundation is committed to providing support to those in need through a fair and transparent selection process. By adhering to this policy, we aim to ensure that our resources are allocated effectively to relieve suffering and promote the rehabilitation of individuals' physical, mental and emotional health.
Approval:
This policy has been approved by the Board of Trustees of the Beyond Boundaries Foundation on 30 December 2024.
For further information, please contact us at hello@beyondboundariesfoundation.org.
What data/measures we use to evaluate eligibility:
In the UK, the criteria for determining low income, disadvantaged, or vulnerable groups are outlined through various government policies and guidelines. Here are some key points based on official sources:
1. Low Income Thresholds:
o Households are considered low income if they earn less than 60% of the national median income. For example, the median income for a couple without children was just below £30,000 from January 2019 to December 2020.
o The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) uses these thresholds to assess eligibility for various benefits.
2. Universal Credit:
o Universal Credit is a key benefit aimed at low-income individuals and families. Eligibility includes being on a low income or out of work, having savings below £16,000, and meeting specific residency requirements.
3. Vulnerability Indicators:
o Disadvantaged groups may include those receiving certain benefits (e.g., Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance) or those living in households with children who qualify for free school meals.
o Vulnerability can also be assessed through factors such as homelessness, disability, or long-term health issues.
4. Means-Tested Benefits:
o Many benefits are means-tested, meaning eligibility is based on income and savings. This includes Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, and various allowances under Universal Credit.
5. Local Authority Support:
o Local councils provide additional support for economically vulnerable households through schemes like council tax reduction and discretionary housing payments. These programs often have varying eligibility criteria based on local needs.
6. Government Reports and Assessments:
o Reports from government bodies, such as the Local Government Association, analyse the impacts of economic policies on vulnerable households, providing insights into the support mechanisms available at both national and local levels.
Whilst we use these as key measures, this is not finite and each case is considered individually.