\n A six-week consultation launched on Wednesday, November 26 by North Somerset Council is inviting feedback on plans to reduce the level of support offered through the Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme, which could take effect from April 1, 2026.\n<\/p>\n
\n The proposed changes would see the maximum reduction for eligible working-age residents drop from 75.5 per cent of their council tax bill to 65.5 per cent.\n<\/p>\n
\n Cllr Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: “The council is facing the most challenging financial situation in its history.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Like many councils across the country, we\u2019re experiencing increasing demand for our services along with increasing costs.\n<\/p>\n
\n “The cost of delivering children\u2019s and adult social care now makes up 62 per cent of our total revenue budget, and only last week we heard our funding is expected to be cut by a further \u00a317m after the outcome of the government\u2019s funding review was announced.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Every council service is being reviewed, and really tough decisions are having to be made.\n<\/p>\n
\n “We must strike a balance between a council tax reduction scheme that is affordable and fair, both for those who receive council tax reduction and for all residents who rely on our wider council services.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Please complete the consultation before the deadline, as your feedback will help councillors decide how the scheme should operate from April 2026 when the next tax year begins.”\n<\/p>\n