Purpose

The
purpose of the report is to request that the Lead Member for
Finance adopts the revised policy and policy guidelines for
Discretionary Relief which has been effective from 1st
April 2024. The change to the policy is as a result of legislation
which removes the restriction on backdating relief for applications
which relate to the 2020/24 charge period onwards.

Content

To
adopt the new revised version of the Discretionary Relief Policy
and Policy Guidelines as shown in Appendix A and Appendix
B.

Reasons for the decision

The
adoption of a formal policy ensures that billing and collection is
carried out in accordance with the law and government
requirements.

Alternative options considered

Option:
To not adopt the new policy.
 
Reason:
To ensure that billing and collection is carried out in accordance
with the law and government requirements.