Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet has taken the decision to continue to offer residents both financial and non-financial support by continuing with its existing Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme as well as with its Discretionary Housing Scheme.
So far this year (up to the end of September 2024) the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme has supported over 12,500 claims, benefiting a wide range of individuals and families who needed the council’s help and support.
The council’s Discretionary Housing Scheme in 2023/2024 also awarded nearly 800 discretionary payments.
Both schemes offer support to those who are assessed as in need of financial support by helping with their council tax costs or with their housing payments, as a result of their low income and financial situation.
The Council Tax Reduction Scheme will also continue to apply support for our armed forces, with a 100% voluntary disregard under the scheme of War Disablement Pensions, War Widows Pensions and War Widowers’ Pensions.
In addition to the financial support available, council teams will also help individuals and families to access the most appropriate advice and guidance services to support their needs.
Cllr Andrew Jarvis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Finance, said: “The cost of living crisis continues to be very real for a lot of people. As a council we want to do as much as we can to support those in need in our community.
“These two support schemes agreed this week are designed to provide real help to those on low incomes or facing financial hardship.
“They allow Westmorland and Furness Council to work closely with residents to provide financial assistance to those in most need and also provide wider support, such as identifying other benefits that people may also be eligible for.”
The two schemes both work to clear eligibility and criteria to ensure a consistent and fair approach is taken in decision-making and assessment.
More information about Council Tax Reduction and Discretionary Housing Scheme.