Views sought on Council Tax support changes
Date: 7 October 2019
West Oxfordshire District Council is calling on residents to give their views on proposed changes to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme.
The Council has launched a consultation which runs until Friday 15 November and is open to all residents in the district, not just those in receipt of support. If agreed, the changes would come into effect in 1 April 2020.
Changes proposed include:
- Introducing a new income banded scheme to take account of different groups from single occupants to couples and families with children.
- Introducing an ‘extended period’ of up to eight weeks to support the transition of households whose increased income sees them move into higher banding.
- Removal of the two child limit to help blended families have more disposable income
- Introducing an increase to the maximum amount of savings claimants can have, from £6,001 to £10,000.
Cllr Toby Morris, Deputy Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council and Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “Our aim is to ensure that this scheme is as simple and effective as it can be and that we are making sure that people in greatest need are receiving the support they require. This consultation is an important part of that process and only by consulting with our residents can we be sure we’re getting it right.
“I would encourage anyone who can to spare two minutes and complete the survey via our website, or pick up a paper copy from one of our reception points.”
Following the consultation, a report will be considered by councillors before a decision is made.
The survey can be found online at www.westoxon.gov.uk/CTRS, while paper copies can be found at: Witney Town Centre Shop, Welch Way, Witney, Woodgreen Council Offices, Elmfield Council Offices and the Guild Hall, Chipping Norton.
