Discretionary East Sussex Support Scheme (DESSS)

East Sussex County Council runs a scheme that could help when you are facing a difficult situation and do not have enough money for a daily living need.

You cannot get cash, loans or household items through this scheme.

To qualify for the scheme, you need to live in East Sussex. You must be 16 years or over. You must either have a low income or receive one of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Pension Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Council Tax Support
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Universal Credit

If you are able to cover the need yourself or there is another way that you could do so, DESSS will not be able to help you.

You will also need to fit one of the circumstances below:

• You or your family would be at risk if you don't get support with meeting a one-off need.
• There is a need that has come about as a result of an emergency or disaster.
• You or your family would be at risk if you don't get help with a daily living need.

To apply please complete the application form on our website.