To consider the Council Tax Support Scheme 2025/26.

1.       That the Local Council Tax Support Scheme 2025/26 Scheme be revised to include the following modifications:

a.               Increase the maximum CTS for households with children to 85%.

b.               Remove the earnings disregard to Universal Credit claims.

c.               Introduce a standard £10 rate for non-dependent deductions.

d.               Introduce a minimum award of £1 per week.

e.               Increase the threshold for changes in Universal Credit to £30 per week, with discretion for flexibility.

f.                 Uprate in line with DWP uprating amounts for 2025/26.

2.       That the decision be recommended to Full Council for approval.

3.       That for the 2025/26 final scheme policy, approval be delegated to the Section 151 Officer in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, including administrative and minor changes.

4.       That an Exceptional Hardship Fund to operate alongside the Council Tax Support scheme be introduced.

5.       That decision on the fund budget and scheme detail for an Exceptional Hardship Fund be delegated to the Section 151 Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance.