Somerset Council proposals could increase council tax for over 12,600 low-income households

Proposals put forth by the local authority in Somerset could result in over 12,600 low-income families facing an average annual increase of £415 in their council tax payments. These families would see a reduction in their current council tax discount. While these plans are projected to save Somerset Council £3.88 million annually, the council anticipates a £54 million budget deficit for the upcoming financial year and has consequently sought assistance from the government. Councillor Liz Leyshon, the lead member for resources, characterized the situation as being “between a rock and a hard place.” The council confirmed that 12,633 families, encompassing 5,606 disabled households, would be impacted by these adjustments. Organizations dedicated to assisting low-income individuals and those with disabilities have expressed reservations. Ms. Leyshon stated that this was a decision “no councillor would ever want” to make. “We need to balance the budget. We need the money to pay for… adult social care, for children’s services, for homelessness,” she explained. “We are looking somewhere nobody would want to look – to reduce support for vulnerable people, in order that we can support vulnerable people,” she added, concluding, “It is not where councils want to be.” John Hardy, a founding trustee of The Hub in Bridgwater, expressed that he frequently observes numerous families facing financial difficulties, and the proposed alterations to council tax support “really worries” him. He noted, “I have to say there was a large increase in the amount of people needing food, for example, needing clothing, needing beds, furniture for houses.” Hardy further elaborated, “People who were in dire situations with not enough income coming into their hands and increased electricity prices, increased gas prices, increase food prices – It’s just terrible for them.” He concluded, “People are having to go and look for handouts to feed their family.” Kim Watts serves as the operations manager for debt and money at Citizens Advice Somerset. Her organization provided feedback to the council regarding its proposals earlier this year. Ms. Watts indicated that council tax arrears represent the most common debt for which individuals seek assistance. She explained, “Council tax seems to be a bill that people don’t pay – because food, energy, fuel to get to work and paying their rent and mortgage payments really are the priority.” She expressed concern that the proposed changes could act as the “tipping point” for certain individuals. “The last few years have been really difficult for everybody. The pressures on households are absolutely huge these days,” she added. On Monday, Somerset Council’s executive committee approved the proposals. These measures will exclusively impact working-age individuals who currently receive a council tax reduction, with pensioners remaining unaffected. A definitive decision by the council is scheduled for the new year, with implementation set for April 2025.