Council tax hardship scheme 2023/24

A council tax reduction scheme aimed towards those struggling to meet the cost of their council tax bill.

We have introduced a hardship fund for residents who are in financial hardship.

If eligible, support will be provided as a reduction in your council tax bill. The amount of support will vary depending on your band but will always be 7.01% of your liability. This  reduction will mean the rise in council tax above the national maximum limit of 4.99% will not impact you.

Who is eligible for this reduction

In order to be eligible for the scheme you must:

  • have a council tax liability
  • ensure the property you are applying for the reduction is your sole or main residence.
  • have recourse to public funds
  • have a low income, as detailed below

Income limits

We have set maximum income limits based on the number of people in your household. If your household earns more than this limit, you will not be eligible for this scheme.

We expect that single residents, with no dependents, on a low income to claim Council Tax Support. Therefore single residents are not eligible for this scheme.

Below is a list of maximum income depending on the number of people in your household:

  • Single adult - 1 child - £481 per week
  • Single adult - 2 children - £531 per week
  • Single adult - 3 or more children - £581 per week
  • Couple - no children - £481 per week
  • Couple - 1 child - £531 per week
  • Couple - 2 or more children £581  per week
  • Disabled household - no children - £481 per week
  • Disabled household - 1 child - £531 per week
  • Disabled household - 2 or more children £581 per week

For the purposes of this scheme a disabled household is any household where a resident is disabled, that includes the applicant, partner, children, looked after adults or any other member of the household.

Other schemes are also available and you can review the links at the bottom of this page for further information.

 

How to apply

Applications for the year 2023/23 are now closed. The scheme for 2024/25 will open shortly.

Other help is available

Support is also available from other schemes provided by the council. View the links below to and see what help might be available for you.