Councillor Flora Williamson

THOUSANDS of Islington’s poorest residents are to be told they will no longer be required to pay council tax, writes Richard Osley.

Details of what the Town Hall called “one of the most generous council tax support schemes” were released just before Christmas. Local authorities across the country have found that chasing people for money they simply do not have costs councils even more financially.

Council finance chief Councillor Flora Williamson said: “We know that many of our residents are struggling, amid the huge rise in the cost of living over recent years. Here in Islington, we stand with those that most need support, and make sure that low-income households aren’t left behind. That’s why we’re again committing to continuing our generous Council Tax Support Scheme at one of the highest levels in the country.”

The council will spend around £28 million on full or partial discounts for those struggling.

Those likely to be eligible for the relief will be on low incomes or receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Income Support.

They must have less than £16,000 in savings and investments.

Full details on what help is available and to whom have been published on Islington Council’s website.