The subject of the decision:

This report set out the proposed Discretionary Council Tax Rebate  Discretionary scheme criteria that was being recommended for approval. 

Alternative options considered:

None.

The reason for the decision:

To comply with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities ‘Support for Energy Bills – The Council Tax Rebate 2022-23: Billing Authority Guidance” which set out how authorities should administer the Council Tax Rebate and associated Discretionary Fund for households as part of a package of support for rising energy costs.

The decision:

That Cabinet:-

(1)       approves the proposed Council Tax Rebate Discretionary Fund 2022-23 scheme as set out in the report; and

(2)       delegates authority to the Council’s Section 151 Officer to make amendments to the Council Tax Rebate Discretionary Scheme eligibility criteria to ensure that government  funding is directed to support vulnerable households, if needed.