Council Tax reduction

Important notice about Council Tax support

In February 2026, we approved changes to our Council Tax Reduction Scheme (CTR). This is the scheme which helps low-income households pay their council tax.  

The change effects working age households who receive CTR. 

A public consultation ran for six weeks between November 2025 and January 2026. Following feedback, the support provided for eligible working-age households will reduce by 8% across all income bands. 

To cushion this change, the council is automatically applying a Crisis Payment from the Crisis and Resilience Fund of £371,200 to households who will be affected. This will help to reduce the impact of higher bills on households with the lowest incomes.

For more information and additional support, please see the details in our press release.

Please note, the crisis payment will be automatically applied to 2026/27 Council Tax bills for current households. It will show on your bill as ‘Council Tax Additional Award 26/27’. This support is funded through the Crisis & Resilience Fund.

What is a Council Tax reduction and how to claim it

See if you could be eligible for a Council Tax reduction and find out how to apply

How we calculate your Council Tax reduction

Information about how we work out how much Council Tax reduction you are entitled to

Council Tax reduction hardship fund

More information about when you can apply for our Council Tax reduction hardship fund, which is only for those who have an exceptional need for assistance

Council Tax reduction appeals

Find out how to appeal if you disagree with a decision we have made about your Council Tax reduction

If your circumstances change

Check what changes you need to tell us about and how long you can be absent from your home without affecting your Council Tax reduction