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Â鶹ÊÓƵ will consider a package of continued support to eligible households when it meets next week (Thursday 12 January).

The local Council Tax Support Scheme (CTSS) gives Council Tax discount to eligible households in South Tyneside

The scheme is largely based upon the previous national council tax benefit scheme which ceased in 2013 and linked to revisions in national welfare benefits. Pensioners are eligible for national support.

The local scheme for 23/24 is proposed to remain unchanged from previous years. It provides a 70 per cent rebate to those on low incomes and 85 per cent rebate to those on low incomes but whose household also includes a child under 5 or someone in receipt of a disability benefit.  

Cllr Joanne Bell, Lead Member for Governance, Finance and Corporate Services at Â鶹ÊÓƵ said: "Our Council Tax Support Scheme helps 17,500 households a year. You can claim support towards your council tax if you are unemployed, on a low income or claiming benefits. Discounts vary based on individual circumstances.

"In addition to the support scheme being considered by Council we are also proposing to provide up to £100 discretionary relief, like we did last year. This will benefit over 7,000 households who are of working age and receive council tax support and will be considered as part of the Medium-Term Financial Plan when that is considered in February. Care leavers will continue to be exempt from council tax up to the age of 25 following a decision made by the council in previous years."

Claimants of pensionable age will remain eligible for support towards their council tax liability in accordance with the national council tax benefit scheme.

The estimated cost of the scheme (including support to those of pensionable age) is around £15.5m per annum.

For more information about Council Tax, the support scheme and how to apply go to