Local Council Tax Support Scheme Consultation now open

The cost-of-living crisis still affects many across the Island. Today, Monday 8 September, the Isle of Wight Council is launching its consultation to consider changes to the Local Council Tax Support scheme.

Each year, the Council is required to review its Local Council Tax Support scheme and around 9,500 Islanders receive council tax support this way.

The proposal was submitted to the Policy, Finance and Resources committee on Thursday 4 September with the recommendation to undertake the consultation on the basis that the Local Council Tax Support scheme for 2026/27 is to remain the same as the current scheme, and to continue the Exceptional Hardship Fund policy.

The aim is to provide continued stability for residents who are currently receiving support and ensure they receive the same level of support going into the next financial year.

Chris Ward, Director of Finance for the Isle of Wight Council said ‘‘The Local Council Tax Support scheme consultation is open to all Island residents, not just those in receipt of support currently.  It is important that as many residents as possible register their thoughts through the consultation as the results will form part of the decision-making process for setting council tax and the overall council budget next year.’’

He continued ‘‘this consultation is also running alongside our annual budget consultation. This will gather views from the public on the spending prioritisation of an already very limited budget. We understand the difficulties many are facing and want to help Island residents when and where possible. Residents can find the budget consultation by visiting Isle of Wight Council Budget Consultation 2026/27 ’’

Islanders can be assured that the implications of any changes to the scheme will not affect pension-age recipients of local council tax support. However, any changes could affect those of working age as well as users of council services more widely.

The Local Council Tax Support scheme consultation is available by visiting: www.iow.gov.uk/lctsconsultation It opens today, Monday 8 September 2025 and closes on Monday 3 November 2025.

Paper copies are available from council offices and libraries from 22 September 2025,or you can request a paper copy be sent to you by calling 01983 823950. An easy read version is also available.

A further report will be presented back to the Policy, Finance and Resources committee on 8 January 2026. This will give the results of the consultation alongside a proposed recommendation. This will then go to Full Council on 21 January 2026 who will make the final decision on the Local Council Tax Support scheme.