Council Tax Reduction Scheme
Councils are adjusting Council Tax Reduction Schemes, with some implementing changes and others considering cuts or offering hardship funds.
Hillingdon Council implemented changes to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme in April 2026, applying non-dependent deductions to all working-age claimants, including those receiving disability benefits. An equality impact assessment acknowledged these changes negatively impact vulnerable residents, with Councillor Eddie Lavery stating the decision was necessitated by government funding deferral. Meanwhile, Hackney Council decided in February 2026 to keep its Council Tax Reduction Scheme unchanged for the 2026/27 financial year.
Kensington and Chelsea Council is considering potential cuts to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme for working residents from April 2026, with its Leadership Team discussing consultation on these changes in October 2025 due to financial pressures. In December 2025, Haringey Council launched a new Council Tax Hardship Fund, approved by Councillor Seema Chandwani, allocating £66,000 to support residents struggling with council tax bills.
Key facts
- Hillingdon Council implemented changes to its Council Tax Reduction scheme in April 2026. Source
- Hackney Council's Council Tax Reduction Scheme for 2026/27 will remain unchanged. Source
- Haringey Council launched a new Council Tax Hardship Fund with an initial allocation of £66,000 in December 2025. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council's Leadership Team discussed potential cuts to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme in October 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.