Fylde Council has confirmed its commitment to supporting residents through the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme (CTRS), with no major changes proposed for the 2025/26 financial year.
This announcement follows a thorough review and consultation process involving key stakeholders and partners.
The CTRS was introduced in April 2013 as part of the Welfare Reform Act 2012, replacing the national Council Tax Benefit scheme. Each year, the Council has reviewed and updated the scheme to ensure it meets the needs of the local community. For working-age claimants, the 2024/25 scheme maintained a means-tested assessment and a maximum support reduction of 22.7%. This rate, unchanged since 2014/15, has been found to provide a fair balance between support for eligible residents and financial sustainability for the Council.
The proposed CTRS for 2025/26 retains the 22.7% maximum reduction in support for working-age claimants. The Council will also continue offering additional discretionary awards for households facing exceptional circumstances. These awards, made under Section 13A of the Local Government Finance Act 2012, aim to mitigate the scheme’s impact on vulnerable residents.
A comprehensive Equality Analysis has been conducted, ensuring that the scheme aligns with statutory obligations and considers the impact on protected groups.
The Council has engaged with Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, seeking their input on the proposed scheme. Responses will be included in the final report to be presented at the December 2024 Council meeting.
The estimated cost of the CTRS for 2024/25 stands at £5,454,990, with Fylde Council contributing £541,680. The increase from the previous year’s cost of £5,403,515 reflects higher Council Tax levels set by major preceptors. Funding for CTRS is now incorporated within general central government funding allocations, making specific grant identification no longer feasible.
The Council continues to monitor and refine the CTRS annually to ensure it remains fit for purpose, balancing the needs of residents with financial prudence. Councillor Vince Settle, Lead Member for Finance and Resources at Fylde Council stated:
“The Council Tax Reduction Scheme plays a vital role in supporting low-income households while ensuring the financial sustainability of the scheme. We are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable approach for all residents.”
The proposed CTRS for 2025/26, including any minor adjustments, will be reviewed and determined at the December 2024 Council meeting. Full details of the scheme and supporting policies, including the Discretionary Discount Policy and Equality Analysis, are available on the Fylde Council website: Council Tax Reduction Scheme.
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