Purpose

This report seeks Cabinet
Member consideration to approve an award of discretionary top-up
rate relief to a non-profit making organisation under the
provisions of section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988
(as amended by section 69 of the Localism Act 2011).

Decision

Decision(s):

 
That the application from Southport Offshore Rescue Trust for
discretionary top-up rate relief of 20% of the gross liability for
the financial year 2023-2024 amounting to £11,161.60 be
approved.
 
The
discretionary top-up rate relief applied for is in respect of the
premises at Southport Lifeboat Station, Marine Drive, PR8
1SD.
 
 

  Reasons for the
Decision(s):
 
Southport Offshore Rescue Trust is a registered charity, registered with the
Charities Commission, Registration number 1146805 and, in line with
other registered charities, is entitled to 80% mandatory rate
relief in respect of their business rates liability at
Southport Lifeboat Station, Marine Drive,
PR8 1SD.
Southport Offshore Rescue Trust provide lifeboat and
land-based search and rescue services along the Sefton coast. The
main aim of the organisation is the preservation of life along the
Southport coastline. Indeed, Southport Lifeboat has helped in the
safe return of over 400 people since being formed.
 
Southport Offshore Rescue Trust pay no salaries and
all members and Trustee Directors are volunteers who provide and
commit their time freely. They are not part of the Royal National
Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and therefore do not receive any
funding from them.
 
The organisation relies on income from its charity
shop, lottery and public donations to be able to purchase essential
life-saving equipment. An award of relief will enable the
organisation re-allocate funds to the purchase of equipment that
will positively impact the safety of Sefton’s
coastline.
 
Under rate retention, 99% of discretionary relief
must be borne by the Council and 1% by the Fire
Authority.
 
 
Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:
(including any Risk Implications)
 
None. However, Cabinet Member may refuse the application or
choose to award a lower level of relief.