Council tax exemption for care leavers
Young care leavers in Inverclyde are being reminded they will not have to pay council tax.
From April anyone who is at least 18 years old – but under 26 - and previously in the care of Inverclyde Council will be exempt from council tax.
Council Leader Councillor Stephen McCabe said: “Council tax bills are due to be sent out shortly and I would ask anyone who thinks they may be eligible to get in touch and let us know. Care leavers face many barriers as they grow into adulthood and all-too-often homelessness and poverty can hold them back in life. This is one measure that should ease any financial pressures they face.”
A young person who has left care and lives on their own will be exempt from council tax. If they share a home with one other person the other person will still be entitled to a 25 per cent single person’s council tax discount.
The council has agreed to fund the initiative as part of the 2018/19 budget and wants to encourage as many care leavers to benefit as possible.
care leavers' covenant in 2015.
In 2015 Inverclyde Council became the first council in Scotland to sign up to the Scottish Care Leavers’ Covenant promising increased support for young people who have been brought up in care.
The covenant is a commitment to improve the lives and opportunities of young people leaving care as they enter adulthood.
Support now offered by the council includes developing skills to manage finances and budget on a limited income, help finding suitable housing, financial support for essential furnishings and household goods (average spend around £3000) and help with benefit applications.
Councillor McCabe added: “The move from care to living independently can be problematic so like any other parent we have a duty and a responsibility to help these young people achieve their full potential.
“This is another positive step in meeting the needs of our care leavers and offering them the support we would want for our own children.”
Anyone who believes they are entitled to a care leaver’s council tax exemption should contact the throughcare and aftercare team on 01475 715020.