Have your say on council tax reduction to help those on lowest incomes face cost of living pressures

29 Oct 2026

A consultation has been launched on plans to support residents on low incomes, including those in work, facing cost-of-living pressures.

West Suffolk Council is asking residents and stakeholders to have their say on extending for a fifth year a scheme that gives up to a 100 per cent discount on Council Tax.

The move is part of a range of ways the council is supporting communities including those with the highest risk of financial hardship as a result of economic pressures.

In 2027 to 2028 this would see £594,612 invested by organisations that set Council Tax precepts in supporting those most in need that meet the criteria.

The public and stakeholders are being asked to have their say on continuing temporarily changing the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme for another year. This would see the continuation of an increased discount from the previously capped 91.5 per cent (where those eligible pay a minimum of 8.5 per cent of their Council Tax) to a maximum discount of up to a 100 per cent (where those eligible would pay none of their bill).

As part of this year’s engagement the council is asking residents as well as partners and those who set Council Tax such as parish, town and the county councils their views on whether to do this for another year.

The proposal is highly targeted to reach those who are already on means-tested benefits, many of whom are working, and has low administrative cost. This could see around 4,900 residents continuing to benefit and represents £594,612 in a one year investment by organisations that set Council Tax precepts in supporting those who meet the criteria.

The cost to the council would be worked through the 2027 to 2028 budget setting process.

By providing additional support to residents the aim is to help avoid crisis situations such as becoming homelessness. Providing Council Tax support can also help people keep their head above water and their independence while avoiding having to rely on costlier benefits such as Exceptional Hardship Payments.

This is a temporary measure and if agreed the West Suffolk Council’s Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme would be reviewed for the next budget round starting in April 2028.

People can have their say by visiting: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/WestSuffolkLCTRS/

The consultation opens today, 29 October and closes on 25 November 2026.

Cllr Diane Hind, Cabinet Member for Resources for West Suffolk Council, said: “The cost of living, and other economic pressures are continuing to hit many people. Which is why I am pleased that the council for the fifth year is once again looking at extending for the 2027-28 year this reduction in Council Tax. This reduction will help people on low incomes, including those working, to help keep their heads above water in these difficult financial times and have more money in their pocket. Last year around 4,600 people were helped by this scheme. It is part of a range of ways the council is delivering to ensure we have thriving communities in West Suffolk, including supporting those with the highest risk of financial hardship.”

 

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