What is a local connection?
As a general rule, the applicant must have a local connection with the Argyll & Bute area. This means that you need to have lived in Argyll and Bute for a certain period, either:
- Six months in the last year, or
- More than three years in the past five years
You also have a local connection if you are employed in Argyll and Bute, or – in special circumstances - if you have close family members who have been resident in the area for at least five years.
Applicants without a local connection but in special circumstances are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Special circumstances include people fleeing domestic violence.
The Council has a power to refer an applicant to another local authority in Scotland, England or Wales if it thinks the applicant does not have a local connection with Argyll & Bute but does have a local connection with another authority.