Green light for New Forest District Council tax support fund for vulnerable households

VULNERABLE households struggling with council tax bills are set to receive further support from New Forest District Council over the coming year.

Cllr Jeremy Heron, portfolio holder for finance, investment and corporate service, has approved the council tax support fund scheme, utilising a £208,018 government hand-out.

This will deliver additional support to households already receiving council tax support with their bills in 2023/24.

NFDC will give a one-off award of up to £25, with no need for an application as it is paid directly into council tax accounts.

Any funds left over will be used for a top-up of up to £10 to those receiving the support, meaning the sum received will be up to £35 each.

Anyone claiming and receiving council tax support after 1st April will also be eligible for the support.

The support is delivered through discretionary powers under the Local Government Finance Act 1992.