A consultation has been launched for people to have their say on proposed changes to the way council tax support is calculated for low-income households.
The Local Council Tax Support Scheme consultation runs until 12th November and asks residents to give their views on possible changes to the scheme.
The proposals would see Housing and Childcare Costs of Universal Credit being disregarded, the introduction of full support for the poorest households and changes to the weekly income allowances and percentage reductions which households can receive.
The aim is to re-align the amount of support provided to low-income households in Bath and North East Somerset, in particular people receiving Universal Credit who rent their homes or receive support for their childcare costs.
Councillor Mark Elliott, Cabinet Member for Resources, said “Council tax is a regressive tax and is not how this administration would choose to manage local taxation, but we have to work with the system we’re given and we’re determined to make it as fair as possible, particularly for those on the lowest incomes.
“We have reviewed the current rules which were introduced in 2017 and believe that there is a case for change, and we want residents to have their say.
“The proposed changes would ensure that support is allocated more evenly to residents, particularly those in rented accommodation, and those who pay for childcare.
“That is why we are consulting on changes to disregard the specific elements of Universal Credit which are for housing and childcare.
“These are costs which residents have actually incurred – it’s not optional expenditure.
“I want to be clear that this isn’t a cost-cutting exercise. In fact, our modelling suggests it may mean the council spending slightly more on council tax support overall.
“Whilst many residents, particularly the least well-off, will benefit from this proposed revision of the scheme, I understand that there would be some residents who will be negatively affected by these changes.
“We are writing to all those who are affected by the proposal and reminding anyone in financial crisis to contact the Welfare Support Team for help.”
The changes to the scheme will only affect residents who receive Council Tax Support and Universal Credit.
Those who receive Council Tax Support and other benefits or are on a low income will not be impacted by these changes.
To give your views and to find out more about the proposed changes, visit this page.
