DECISION

1.    Note the feedback from responses received to the full public consultation.

2.    Agree the following changes to the current LCTRS scheme:

a.    To apply a maximum weekly deduction of £4 for disabled non dependants from April 2019.

b.    To retain the principle of applying the minimum income floor for self-employed residents including the use of minimum wage levels for self-employed residents aged under 25.

c.    To provide an enhanced support package for self-employed residents and the application of S13A discounts to avoid hardship.

d.    To increase the current four week backdating provision to 52 weeks from April 2019.

e.    Change child allowances in the assessment of Local Council Tax Reduction to reflect those used in the assessment of Child Tax Credit, Universal Credit and Housing Benefit.

3.    Note that a report will be presented to Full Council for approval of the LCTRS scheme in January 2020.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, RESOURCES (Z. COOKE)

(Benefit Services (L Fearon and S. Hill)

Councillor Candida Ronald, Cabinet Member for Resources and the Voluntary Sector, introduced the report. She highlighted that this was one of the most generous Council Tax Reduction Schemes around and one of very few which still gave 100% relief to some residents. She highlighted the positive consultation feedback, the challenge of dealing with the introduction of Universal Credit and also the useful Scrutiny Challenge session.

The Mayor thanked everyone who had worked on this report and the good value the scheme was in supporting residents. He agreed the recommendations as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    Note the feedback from responses received to the full public consultation.

2.    Agree the following changes to the current LCTRS scheme:

a.    To apply a maximum weekly deduction of £4 for disabled non dependants from April 2019.

b.    To retain the principle of applying the minimum income floor for self-employed residents including the use of minimum wage levels for self-employed residents aged under 25.

c.    To provide an enhanced support package for self-employed residents and the application of S13A discounts to avoid hardship.

d.    To increase the current four week backdating provision to 52 weeks from April 2019.

e.    Change child allowances in the assessment of Local Council Tax Reduction to reflect those used in the assessment of Child Tax Credit, Universal Credit and Housing Benefit.

3.    Note that a report will be presented to Full Council for approval of the LCTRS scheme in January 2020.