Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 17, 2025

Purpose: To agree consultation options for the local Council Tax Support Scheme, 2026/27.

Content: Resolved:   1.     That the following options be consulted on: -   ·       Option 1 - Retain the current maximum level of support for Households with Children 100% and Other Households 85% and find savings elsewhere. ·       Option 2 – Reduce the maximum level of support to 90% to lone parents, 80% to couples with children and 75% for all other households. ·       Option 3 – Reduce the maximum level of support to 90% to lone parents, 80% to couples with children and 70% for all other households; and   2.     That oversight and approval of the consultation approach be delegated to the Section 151 Officer in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance.

Reasons for the decision: This will enable a period of consultation with major preceptors and the public on the scheme options for 2026/27, with feedback from the consultation process helping Cabinet to make its final recommendation to Full Council in respect of the scheme for 2026/27.

Alternative options considered: Options to reduce the support in the current scheme groups, i.e. households with children, and other households were considered but rejected in favour of considering options that maintain a higher level of support for lone parent households.