To recommend to Council the 2025/26 local Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme. 

ChildrenCHTHE MEMBER the The member for finance and corporate services introduced the report.  It was confirmed that eligible households would receive the maximum level of discount for a further year.  This would be available to working age and pensioner claimants, the pensioner Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme is set nationally however the working age CTR is set locally by Herefordshire council.

It was confirmed that a 100% discount is awarded under CTR unless their income reaches the threshold irrespective of the council tax band that the property falls into. The consultation confirmed continuing support for this discount for those most in need.

It was highlighted that in addition to the CTR scheme the council also provides other discounts and these are listed on the council's website.

It was commented that maintaining the maximum discount in 2025/26 will have a positive impact on the community by minimising the debt burden on residents who struggle to pay their council tax charge.

Comments from cabinet members.  It was confirmed there was a discretionary hardship fund as well as the CTR and other grants that can be applied for. 

Group leaders gave the views of their groups. There was support for the continuation of the 100% Council Tax Reduction and it was raised that increased publication around the funds that are available would be beneficial.  It was raised there was no additional scheme that allowed greater discretion for officers to exercise their judgement, outside the set criteria for the CTR, to respond to individual cases. 

In response to queries it was confirmed there was the discretionary hardship fund as well as the Council Tax Reduction fund.  The Talk Community Hub team also highlight the other grants that are available to parish councils and other groups.  It was also noted that the council had raised the issue of rural deprivation to central government. 

Councillor Stoddart proposed the recommendations, and it was unanimously resolved that the following be recommended to Council

That:

a)    The Council Tax Reduction Scheme for 2025/26, with the same parameters as the existing scheme, be recommended to Council for approval