Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: November 19, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED   Approved the adoption of, with no changes to, the existing modified scheme under Housing Benefit subsidy for 2026/27 whereby the Council locally and voluntarily disregards war disablement pensions and war widow pensions in the Housing Benefit calculation.   REASON   The locally modified Housing Benefit scheme is an annual scheme requiring an annual review and approval, even when no changes to the scheme are being proposed. The scheme remains affordable for Horsham District Council and provides a good level of support to our less well-off residents.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED BUT REJECTED AS IDENTIFIED IN THE REPORT   Horsham District Council has the authority to do nothing and keep the scheme the same as it is now or reduce the amount of financial support awarded through this scheme. However, the latter course of action was rejected because of the need to continue to support the financially vulnerable.