Purpose

To seek Executive approval of the Council Tax Support Fund Policy, which deals with the allocation of Fareham’s proportion of Government funding.  The aim is to assist those residents receiving Council Tax Support who have an outstanding Council Tax liability, by awarding additional Council Tax Support of up to £25.00 via a Mandatory Scheme.  Also, to provide a Discretionary Fund, where local authorities can determine their own approach to supporting economically vulnerable households with their Council tax.

On 23 December 2022 the government announced the Council Tas Support Fund, stating that they recognised the impact of rising Council Tax bills.

“The government will be distributing £100 million of new grant funding in 2023/24 for local authorities to support economically vulnerable households in their area with Council tax payments”.

This policy covers the administration of Fareham’s proportion of the fund, which is £99,331, split between:

·         A mandatory fund, which assists those receiving Council Tax Support who have an outstanding Council Tax liability of up to £25.00.

·         A discretionary fund, where local authorities can determine their own approach to supporting economically vulnerable households.

Decision

RESOLVED that the Executive agrees that the key principles of the Council Tax Support Fund Policy, as outlined in the report, be approved for adoption in Fareham.