Agenda item

The Executive RESOLVED that a consultation be undertaken on the proposed new Local Council Tax Support Scheme, with a view to with adoption from 1 April 2022.

The Executive considered a report proposing changes to the Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS). In 2013, the Government had abolished Council Tax Benefit and asked local councils to introduce their own scheme for working age residents who need help paying their Council Tax. This had become known as Local Council Tax Support.

The Community Support Working Group had reviewed the LCTSS and had recommended the adoption of a revised scheme, which had the overriding principles that it targeted households least able to pay their council tax and had a simplified process. A broad outline of the proposed scheme, along with worked examples, as detailed in the agenda report were noted.

Members were advised that transitional protection was proposed for those impacted by more than a £5 per week reduction in support in payments of Council Tax due to the introduction of the revised scheme from 1 April 2022. It was also proposed to give transitional protection from the new capital limit for those current vulnerable group claimants with over £6000 but less than £16,001 capital for the period 1 April 2022 to 30 September 2022.

A public consultation would be undertaken, including with precepting authorities, prior to the adoption of any new Scheme.

RESOLVED that a consultation be undertaken on the proposed a new Local Council Tax Support Scheme, with a view to adoption from 1 April 2022.