(1) Whenever it appears to a designated person or deciding officer that by reason of exceptional circumstances the needs of a person can best be met by the provision of goods or services instead of the whole or part of any payment to which he or she would otherwise be entitled under this Chapter, a designated person or deciding officer may determine or decide that the goods or services be provided for the person under arrangements made by a designated person.

(2) In making a determination under this section to meet sudden and urgent need, a designated person or deciding officer may dispense with inquiry into means or other circumstances and with compliance with any regulations made under this Chapter.

(3) In relation to any goods or services provided by a designated person or deciding officer under subsection (1), references in this Chapter to the amount of supplementary welfare allowance are deemed to be references to the value of the goods or services so provided.