Have Your Say on a New Council Tax Support Scheme 2024/25

Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) is inviting residents to have their say on a new Council Tax Support Scheme for the district.

Each year, the council must decide whether to change the Council Tax Support Scheme for working-age applicants in its area. The council is legally required to seek the views of residents and stakeholders regarding any proposed changes. Residents and stakeholders can have their say by Sunday 10 September.

The council committed to reviewing the Council Tax Support Scheme as part of its new Corporate Plan.

Across Huntingdonshire, currently, around 4,000 working-age Council Tax payers receive Council Tax Support and most working-age applicants are required to make a minimum payment of 20%. Where the applicant has a child under five years old the minimum payment required is 15%. Where an applicant is either severely disabled or where they have a disabled child, then up to 100% can be granted.

As part of this process, we are asking residents and stakeholders what they think about the proposed Council Tax Support Scheme. The proposed scheme is designed to bring a simplified approach that will be easier to understand, access and manage. It looks to provide up to 100% support for households on the lowest incomes as well as making the scheme work better with the Universal Credit system, support families, carers and applicants who receive a disability benefit, along with taking away the need for constant changes in awards.

The Council Tax Support Scheme for pension-age applicants is set by government and will continue unchanged.

Executive Councillor for Customer Services, Councillor Stephen Ferguson, said: "We want to improve the quality of life for local people. This scheme will give more help to the people who need it most, no matter where they live in the district. I would welcome views from all our residents and stakeholders and I encourage you to have your say by 10 September."

Responses need to be made by Sunday 10 September 2023.

Paper versions will be available by emailing: CTSconsultation@huntingdonshire.gov.uk