Kensington and Chelsea Council is set to introduce a full council tax waiver for residents medically certified as terminally ill with a life expectancy of 12 months or less. The decision, made at the Full Council meeting on 22 October 2025, aims to provide vital support and dignity to the borough's most vulnerable residents during their final months.

Eligibility for the waiver is determined based on certification from a registered medical professional, such as a GP or specialist consultant. The waiver applies from the date of certification and lasts until the resident passes away or their prognosis is officially revised.

The motion, which was approved by the council, ensures that the waiver will be available irrespective of age, income, or existing exemptions. The council also committed to creating a simple and compassionate application process, working with local health services, hospices, and social care providers to inform eligible individuals and families about the exemption.

Furthermore, the council resolved to advocate for similar national reforms, pushing for statutory provisions for council tax relief for terminally ill individuals across all local authorities in England and the rest of the UK. The council resolves to advocate for similar national reforms for introducing statutory provisions for council tax relief for terminally ill individuals across all local authorities in England and the rest of the UK.

The decision was part of a larger meeting where councillors addressed a variety of issues, including the borough's medium-term financial strategy and motions on pension fund investments. The full details of the meeting can be found in the Public reports pack.