Residents in Torbay are being asked to have their say on proposed changes to the level of discount on Council Tax for those eligible.

Each year, Torbay Council has to decide whether to change the Council Tax Support scheme for working age residents who receive means-tested benefits.

The proposal is, from 1 April 2024, to increase the maximum reduction available to working age household from 70% to 75%. This would mean that those households claiming Council Tax Support would pay less Council Tax than they currently do. The proposed increase would bring Torbay slightly nearer to what our neighbouring authorities offer but is still currently less than they offer, with some councils offering between 80 and 100% discount.

There would be no impact on pensioners claiming Council Tax Support as they are protected by Government legislation.

In addition, for the coming year (1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024), the Council’s Cabinet is recommending that all working age claimants of Council Tax Support receive a one-off payment of £100.

Leader of Torbay Council Steve Darling said: “We know there is a cost-of-living crisis and we want our residents to thrive so we are keen to support people wherever we can. Please do take the opportunity to have your say on the Council Tax Support Scheme.”

Councillor Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance for Torbay Council, said: “We understand the rise in the cost of living is making things hard for households. The Council Tax Support Scheme is just one of a range of measures that aim to help people who need a bit of extra support.”

You can have your say via the online survey here. 

Other support with the cost of living

You can find a range of information about the help available with the cost of living on our website here