Council tax payment grants for Barking and Dagenham residents
Charges for residents in Barking and Dagenham are set to go up to counter central government policies - Credit: photo: Arnaud Stephenson
The Council has agreed to set aside £50,000 to help those who are “struggling” and experiencing financial hardship pay their council tax bills.
Around 370 residents may benefit from the discretionary grant which could reduce bills by an average of £130 per household.
The scheme has been agreed by the cabinet as a way to provide support to help residents through difficult times.
It is hoped that it will also allow people the opportunity to regain control of their finances and seek advice.
To qualify, residents must be receiving Council Tax Support, prove they need financial assistance and provide evidence they have sought help from other services.
Deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, Cllr Dominic Twomey said: “Ongoing welfare reform issues have increased financial pressure on some residents who, as a result are facing financial hardship.
“We are aware of this increased pressure on household incomes and that is why we have agreed to adopt this policy to help residents who are struggling.”
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The reduction will be applied to council tax in 2016/17 for a maximum of two months and will not be backdated.
