TOWNFOLK can have their say on a council tax support scheme put forward by Bromsgrove District Council.

A support scheme is in draft form, putting forward proposals to meet the shortfall in funding for council tax support.

This follows major changes to the welfare benefits system, after April 1, when council tax benefit ended and was replaced by a new scheme called Local Council Tax Support. This must be decided by the local authorities and for the last two years Bromsgrove District Council has not changed its level of support, despite reduced funding from central Government.

The reduction in funding for council tax support could be met by reducing the level of support for working age claimants, by making cuts to other council services, by increasing council tax, or by use of balances and reserves - or a combination of these.

Councillor Michael Webb, portfolio-holder for finance, said: “We are determined to continue to protect our more vulnerable residents and I believe our new proposed scheme will do just that.

“However, due to the reduction in funding, like most councils we are proposing to implement a new council tax support scheme.”

Changes proposed include setting the maximum of support for working age claimants at 80 per cent, removing second adult rebate, and also developing a discretionary hardship fund to provide relief for vulnerable residents. Residents can get involved in the consultation around Local Council Tax Support scheme on the authority's website, bromsgrove.gov.uk.

Responses need to be made by December 5.