Purpose

To approve the local council
tax reduction scheme and agree any amendments as necessary. It is a
legal requirement that the council approve the scheme
annually.

Content

Recommended to Full Council (Budget and Policy
Framework):

1)   
That Cabinet recommends to Full Council that the
2025/26 Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme is adopted as the
2026/27 scheme. This is subject to any changes announced in the
budget due on 26 November 2025 and annual DWP welfare benefit
uprating due in January 2026.

2)   
That Cabinet recommends to Full Council that,
subject to Full Council adoption of the Scheme, the Assistant
Director Revenues and Benefits be delegated authority:

 

(a)     
To Implement the Scheme, such delegated authority to
include any measures necessary for or incidental to its management
and administration; and

(b)     
If necessary, and in accordance with paragraph 2.3,
to amend the Scheme in consultation with the Cabinet Member for
Finance, Resources and Community Wealth Building.
(Key
decision):

3)   
That additional funding of £200k is made
available to ensure support is available to the most financially
vulnerable claimants from April 2026.