Torbay residents are being invited to have their say on Torbay Council’s proposed changes to the Local Council Tax Support Scheme.

This scheme helps people on low incomes to pay their council tax and is funded by the council.

The current scheme was introduced in April 2013, when the Government ended Council Tax Benefit and councils were made responsible for their own schemes. Torbay’s scheme has remained largely unchanged since its introduction.

Some of the changes being proposed from April 2017 are due to the council’s current financial position. The continuing reduction in government funding means that the council has to look at how it delivers all of its services to make savings, including the council tax support scheme.

Torbay is currently consulting on ten different proposals that could affect working age households, pensioners are protected in accordance with regulations set by central Government.  The proposals will also bring the scheme in line with a number of other welfare changes made by Central Government. 

Executive Lead for Customer Services, Cllr Mark King, said: “We would like all residents and key stakeholders to respond to the consultation and comment on the changes being proposed. During the consultation period we shall be holding several events so that people can have their say on the proposals."

There will be three events being held across the Bay for residents. 
These start at 6.30pm at Paignton Library and Information Centre on 21 September, Upton Vale Church in Torquay on 22 September and Brixham Town Hall Function Room on 23 September.

The consultation will run until 31 October 2016.

More information about the scheme proposals and a link to the online survey can be found at www.torbay.gov.uk/council/consultations/cts-consultation. A paper copy can be requested by emailing consultation@torbay.gov.uk.