Decision details

To seek Executive approval for the draft Council Tax Support Exceptional Hardship Fund policy as set out in Appendix A.

In accordance with the Welfare Reform Act and the Local Government Finance Act, Fareham Borough Council has adopted a local Council Tax Support scheme to replace Council Tax Benefit from 1 April 2013. As detailed in the report presented to Full Council at their meeting of 24 January 2013, it was acknowledged that some residents could face extreme hardship as a result of the reduction in levels of Council Tax support. As a result it was agreed that a Hardship Fund should be introduced to provide limited, short term assistance to those affected and funding of £83,000 was approved.

Following Full Council's approval of the local Council Tax Support scheme, officers have developed an Exceptional Hardship Fund policy with the following objectives:

·                Allow a short period of time for someone to adjust to unforeseen short tem financial circumstances and to enable them to "bridge the gap" during this time, whilst the applicant seeks alternative solutions

·                Support people in managing their finances

·                Help customers through personal crises and difficult events that affect their finances

·                Prevent exceptional hardship

·                Support those who are trying to help themselves financially

That the Executive approves the draft Council Tax Support Exceptional Hardship Policy as set out in the report for implementation with effect from April 2013.