In Camden, the policy is to use local charities as the first point of call to fund goods and/or services to support people in need.

We recognise that the charities application process takes time which isn't helpful when an immediate or interim response is needed e.g. a crisis situation.

Purchase card scheme

The purchase card scheme is non-means tested and aims to enable a practitioner to take action to alleviate crisis or avert a high-risk situation. 

Any resident in crisis qualifies for the scheme regardless of their income or capital. 

What the scheme can be used for

Use the purchase card to:

• buy one-off low cost items, e.g. microwave, bedding, phone top ups etc
• commission services, e.g. house cleaning, garden clearance etc
• purchase anything that cannot be supplied by the Handyman Service or other existing Council schemes without the need for panel approval

Exceptions to the scheme

The following requires Senior Manager approval before the purchase can be made:

• booking taxis
• accommodation-related purchase requests e.g. hotels, bed & breakfast, etc

If transport is to be booked, please complete this form (which can be used to book taxis and train tickets).

Purchase limits

The scheme allows practitioners to purchase items up to a maximum value of £300 + VAT per single transaction.

How to make a purchase

The scheme operates on a virtual basis and is specifically designed to minimise bureaucracy for the practitioner, whilst maintaining the corporate need for accountability, checks and balances.

Practitioners complete the purchase card request form and email it to the Team Clerks. 

Team Clerks make the purchase on the practitioner's behalf and lead on all related financial system administration.

Purchase card scheme workflow

 

Further details

See the Purchase Card Scheme guidance for further information.