Responding to the Money Advice Trust’s report on councils using
bailiffs, Cllr Claire Kober, Chair of the Local Government
Association’s Resources Board, said:
“No council wants to ask people on the lowest incomes to pay
more, but councils have a duty to their residents to collect
taxes – these fund crucial services, such as caring for the
elderly, protecting vulnerable children, keeping roads maintained
and collecting bins. With councils facing a £5.8 billion funding
shortfall by 2020, it’s essential that these funds are collected
so these vital services can be protected.
“As this report indicates, councils will take steps, where
possible, to make sure that people in financial difficulty are
supported, whether that’s through signposting to free debt
advice, or through the joint Council Tax Protocol, which the LGA
has developed alongside Citizens Advice to support those who are
struggling.
“Before councils use bailiffs, which are only ever used as a last
resort, people will have been encouraged to apply for monetary
support and efforts will have been made to either attach the debt
to a salary or arrange new payment plans.
“Anyone who is having trouble paying their council tax or bills
should contact their local authority as soon as possible, for
financial help and advice, and to discuss the options
available.”
COPY OF REPORT TO FOLLOW SHORTLY
