Residents encouraged to have say in consultation on council tax reduction scheme

OLDHAM residents are being urged to respond to a consultation on some important changes to the town’s Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme.

Oldham Council is proposing some changes to the scheme to simplify how it works and make it as fair as possible to residents – and they want to hear what residents think.

Cllr Abdul Jabbar, Deputy Leader of Oldham Council and Cabinet Member for Finance, explained: “Council Tax helps to pay for local services such as schools, parks and roads as well as helping to fund emergency services like the police.

“The amount you pay depends on the property band your home is in (which is set by a Government agency) and if any discounts or exemptions apply.

“We recognise that Council Tax is difficult to afford for some residents on low incomes, therefore, we run a discount scheme.

“This year, we want to change that scheme to make it as fair as possible. However, before we do so, it’s vital that you have your say.”

The consultation is online now and the key points behind the proposed changes are:

• The maximum amount of support a household can receive will remain at 85 percent of a Council Tax Band A charge
• Helping Universal Credit claimants claim CTR as soon as possible so they don’t miss out on crucial financial support
• Changing the way the council factors in earnings, housing costs and other financial circumstances to ensure people don’t miss out on support.

For more information and to fill in the survey, go to www.oldham.gov.uk/CTR2019

Paper copies have also been placed in Access Oldham. The consultation closes October 24.