This week, we’ve launched our consultation to find out what you think about the potential changes we’re proposing to make to our Local Council Tax Support (CTS) Scheme for working-aged people in Barnsley.
Our current Local CTS Scheme has been running now since April 2022, providing valuable support to our most vulnerable residents. As local circumstances and needs change, it’s important that the scheme is regularly reviewed to make sure it still meets these needs. It’s also important that the scheme remains sustainable in future years and does not discourage residents from seeking employment.
To fulfil these needs, a number of changes have been proposed which would be effective from April 2025.
Full details of the proposals and access to the survey can be found on our website.
Cllr Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Core Services, said: “When the government passed responsibility to local authorities to develop their own CTS schemes, it was to make sure that the support schemes reflected the needs and circumstances of local areas. As our circumstances and needs change here in Barnsley, it is crucial that the scheme is reviewed to reflect this.
“The proposed changes will continue to provide the right level of support - targeting the most vulnerable households who need it the most whilst also supporting our Pathways to Work Commission by encouraging people to gain employment.
“Your feedback and views are a critical part of this review, and I’d urge you to consider the proposals and share any comments with us. This will help shape our decisions and offer a fair, consistent and sustainable scheme, whilst protecting those that need it the most.”
As well as completing the survey online, you can also request a paper copy of the proposals and survey questions by calling (01226) 787787 and selecting option 3 (between 10am and 3pm). Alternatively, call into your local library and request a paper copy from a member of staff.
If you have family members or friends who do not have access to the internet or may be interested in having their say, please let them know about the survey and how they can share their views.
The consultation period will start on Monday 21 October 2024 and will run for four weeks, closing at midnight on Sunday 17 November 2024.
