Issue - meetings

Councillor S W Ferguson Executive Councillor for Resident Services and Corporate Performance to present a report reviewing the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27.

(The report was considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Panel (Environment, Communities and Partnerships) and the Cabinet at their meetings in November 2024. The Cabinet endorsed the recommendations).

The Panel is invited to comment on the Council Tax Support 2026/27 Report.

Executive Councillor: S Ferguson

By means of a report by the Revenues and Benefits Manager (a copy of which was appended in the Minute Book), the Council Tax Support 2026/27 Report was presented to the Panel.

The Panel heard that the scheme also provided an administrative benefit to the team in addition to the benefits it provided to residents. 

It was also advised that the Council Tax Support Scheme had been fully planned and budgeted, and was in line with forecast for the year. 

It was clarified to the Panel that the previous response times had included automated responses although not to the same degree as currently. It was also noted that there were several reasons why changes were not able to be immediately implemented and that a human element had to be considered however the Panel were also assured that all response times were closely monitored.

The Chair reflected on an excellent report and praised the principles implemented by the joint administration. The Panel further heard that despite the risks of the scheme, the dedication and hard work of the team

ensured it’s smooth implementational.

Following the discussion, it was

RESOLVED

that the comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Panel be passed to Cabinet for their consideration when making a decision upon the recommendations within the report.