Published: 25/07/2018
YOUNG adults who have been supported in care will not be required to pay council tax once they move into their own home in Copeland.
Copeland Council agreed this week to make all care leavers exempt from paying council tax, until they reach the age of 25.
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “While they are supported by Children and Young People’s Services, care leavers can be faced with a new set of responsibilities, often without the family support and wider network that most other young people can rely on.
“That’s why we firmly support this policy of a 100 per cent council tax discount. It is in keeping with our priority of working to support every member of our society and we are proud to roll it out in Copeland.”
Care leavers who are jointly liable to pay council tax will have their bill reduced in proportion. The discount will be backdated to April 1, 2018, and application forms are being issued to those eligible. The scheme is being rolled out in Copeland as part of the Cumbria Care Leaver: Council Tax Exemption Policy.
Anyone with any questions is asked to contact the council’s Revenues team on 01946 598300 or info@copeland.gov.uk.
** This decision is subject to compliance with standing orders.
