Residents in North Somerset are being asked to have their say on proposed changes to the council’s duty support scheme for low-income homes, as the council looks to balance finances amid rising costs.
Proposed Changes to Council Tax Reduction
North Somerset Council launched a six-week discussion on Wednesday, 26 November, asking for feedback on plans to reduce support through the Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme. However, the changes would take effect from 1 April 2026, if agreed.
The proffers suggest that the maximum reduction for working-age residents would drop from 75.5 per cent to 65.5 per cent of their council duty bill.
Residents presently entering lower than the outside would also see their support drop. Pension-age heirs, generally over 66, would not be affected, as their support is determined nationally.
Cllr Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: “The council is facing the most challenging financial situation in its history. Like many councils across the country, we’re experiencing increasing demand for our services along with rising costs.
The cost of delivering children’s and adult social care now makes up 62 per cent of our total revenue budget, and only last week we heard our funding is expected to be cut by a further £17m following the government’s funding review.
Every council service is under review, and tough decisions are unavoidable. We must balance a council tax reduction scheme that is fair and affordable, both for those who receive support and for residents who rely on wider council services.
Please complete the consultation before the deadline, as your feedback will help councillors decide how the scheme should operate from April 2026.”
How Low-Income Households Can Have Their Say?
Presently, the CTR scheme helps around 6,400 working-age residents in North Somerset. The council is encouraging everyone affected, or anyone with an opinion on council duty support, to take part in the discussion.
The consultation is open until 5pm on Tuesday, 6 January 2025. Residents can have their say online at n-somerset.inconsult.uk/CTS/consultationHome.
