Young people leaving care will not have to pay council tax in Richmondshire under a new policy planned by the district council.
Members of the district council’s corporate board last week agreed to 100 per cent discretionary relief to support care leavers up to the age of 25.
Their decision will be ratified by full council later this month.
It will include people solely liable to pay council tax – where the bill will be reduced to zero, as well as those moving into a household – where the bill will be reduced by 50 per cent.
Both are subject to conditions being met.
“We want to do as much as possible to support young care leavers – and this scheme offers them financial help as they are developing their lives,” said council leader, Councillor Angie Dale.
“They are often faced with an overwhelming set of responsibilities, and with no family or wider network support, need a helping hand.
“This discount scheme gives them just that.”
