The Full Council of Hammersmith and Fulham is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to discuss a range of important financial and governance matters. Key items on the agenda include the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27, the Council Tax base and collection rates for the same year, and a review of the Council's Constitution. Additionally, the Council will receive the Annual Report of the Audit Committee for 2024/25 and consider several special motions on topics such as Black History Month, online hate speech, the Autumn Budget, and green investment.

Council Tax Support Scheme 2026/27

The Council is set to consider its Council Tax Support Scheme for the upcoming financial year. The report indicates a commitment to continuing 100% support for the most vulnerable residents, despite reductions in central government funding. This includes exemptions for care leavers and foster carers, and a proposed new 25% discount for veterans. The scheme represents a significant investment, aiming to ensure that lower-income families are supported and that the council's approach to debt collection remains ethical and compassionate. The report details the financial and legal implications of maintaining the current scheme, which has been in place for 14 years, and outlines the proposed annual uprating of allowances and applicable amounts.

Council Tax Base and Collection Rate 2026/27 and Delegation of the Business Rate Estimate

This report outlines the proposed Council Tax base for 2026/27, which is projected to be 91,726 Band D equivalent properties, an increase from the previous year. This rise is attributed to new property developments and an increased collection rate target of 98.0%. The report also details adjustments for discounts, premiums, exemptions, and Council Tax Support claims. Furthermore, it proposes delegating authority to the Executive Director for Finance and Corporate Services to determine the business rates tax base for 2026/27. The report highlights the Council's ethical debt collection policy and its commitment to supporting vulnerable groups through discounts, aligning with the Council's values of building shared prosperity and creating a compassionate council.

Council Calendar of Meetings 2026/27

The Full Council will be asked to approve the proposed calendar of meetings for the 2026/27 municipal year. This is a standard annual procedure that ensures the Council can conduct its business lawfully and efficiently. The report confirms that there are no direct financial implications associated with this item and that the proposed schedule aligns with the Council's values of transparency and resident engagement.

Review of the Constitution

The Council's Monitoring Officer is required to conduct an annual review of the Council's Constitution. This report seeks approval to note changes to committee memberships, as authorised by the Chief Executive, and to ensure the Constitution continues to reflect the Council's aims and principles. The review aims to maintain high standards of governance, ensuring that decision-making processes are efficient, transparent, and accountable.

Annual Report of the Audit Committee 2024/25

This report summarises the work undertaken by the Audit Committee during the 2024/25 municipal year. It highlights the Committee's scrutiny of the Council's governance structures, financial reporting, and risk management processes. The report notes the positive assurance received from both internal and external auditors regarding the Council's control environment and financial accounts. Key areas of focus included internal audit plan progress, fraud updates, and the Council's Treasury Management activity. The report also details the appointment of an Independent Member to enhance the Committee's effectiveness and reaffirms the Committee's commitment to upholding strong internal controls and accountability.

Special Motions

Several special motions are scheduled for consideration:

• Celebrating Black History Month 2025 in Hammersmith & Fulham: This motion seeks to promote and support Black History Month events, embed Black history in curricula and public programmes, and celebrate local Black leaders and organisations.
• Opposing Online Hate Speech: This motion condemns all forms of hate speech and reaffirms the Council's commitment to building unity and understanding, noting the role of councillors as trusted leaders.
• Autumn Budget: This motion expresses disappointment with the impact of the national Autumn Budget on Hammersmith and Fulham residents, citing concerns about a mansion tax, council tax hikes, and changes to National Insurance contributions.
• Civic Campus: This motion calls on the Administration to provide full details regarding overspending and delays associated with the Civic Campus project.
• H&F Upstream Pathway Bond: This motion welcomes the new H&F Upstream Pathway Bond, part of the borough's industrial strategy, aimed at creating stronger links between education, skills, and local employment for young residents.
• Anniversary of Family Hubs: This motion celebrates the second anniversary of Hammersmith & Fulham's Family Hubs, commending the staff and volunteers for their work in supporting local families and reaffirming the administration's commitment to these vital services.
• H&F Green Investment: This motion commends the successful H&F Green Investment initiative, a £5m scheme empowering residents to invest in community-focused projects, highlighting its role in tackling the climate emergency and strengthening civic participation.