Colchester City Council today launched a consultation on a new Council Tax Support Scheme for working age applicants in the city. The current scheme is due to expire on 31 March 2024, and the council is seeking feedback on its proposals for a new scheme that would start from 1 April 2024.
The proposed scheme would make a number of changes, including:
- Making the scheme easier to understand and access.
- Providing up to 80% support for households on the lowest incomes and those that fall within the protected group.
- Making the scheme work better with the Universal Credit system.
- Supporting families, carers and applicants who receive a disability benefit.
- Taking away the need for constant changes in awards.
- Making the scheme easier to manage.
The closing date for the survey is 29 September 2023.
“We are committed to providing support to those on low incomes to pay their council tax bills. This is part of our wider cost of living support for residents.” said Cllr Mark Cory, Portfolio Holder for Resources.
“The proposed changes to the Local Council Tax Support Scheme would simplify the process, make it faster for customers to receive decisions, and provide maximum support to those who need it most.
“The new scheme is of mutual benefit to residents and the council. It simplifies the process, giving residents more certainty, whilst reducing administration costs and staff time at the council. It is win-win.
“We would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part in the consultation and share their views on the proposed changes. Your feedback is important to us, and it will help us to shape the final scheme.”
The LCTS scheme forms part of a wider package of award-winning council support, which includes flexible payment plans, welfare benefit, debt, and employment advice, as well as administration of an exceptional hardship fund.
The consultation is open to all residents of Colchester.
For more information, please visit www.colchester.gov.uk/council-tax/lcts-public-consultation/ and www.colchester.gov.uk/council-tax
Page last reviewed: 17 August 2023