We are asking
Council Tax Reduction (CTR) can be claimed by people on low income to help pay their Council Tax.
From 1 April 2026 the council is proposing to replace the existing means tested system with a income banded scheme that is easier to understand but still continues to support the most vulnerable.
An income-banded scheme is used by many other local authorities both locally and nationally and is a system where a person’s income is sorted into specific ranges, called ‘bands.’ The amount of support or benefit they receive is then based on which band their income falls into, rather than the exact amount of money they earn.
We want to hear your views on the proposed changes.
Find out more, and have your say using the survey link by 18 January 2026.
What can you Influence?
We are legally required to consult on any proposed changes to the scheme and would like to undertand what you think when considering the changes.
What can't you Influence?
Central government sets the rules for all pension-aged households, including who can claim and how, so the council can only change the Council Tax Reduction scheme for working age claimants.
You said
We did
Your feedback has directly informed the final scheme design. The proposed Council Tax Reduction Scheme will now be considered by the Executive for approval. If adopted, the new scheme will begin on 1 April 2026.
The final scheme design includes:
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Introducing a simpler, clearer income‑banded scheme
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Strengthening protection for vulnerable people
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Removing non‑dependant deductions to reduce hardship
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Keeping important income protections
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Supporting residents who may be worse off, through an Exceptional Hardship Fund