Councillors set to vote on help for Council Tax bills scheme
People in need of support to pay their council tax will continue to be helped should plans be approved.
Article date: 18 February 2026
Councillors on St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet next week will be asked to recommend plans for the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, which will then go to a Full Council meeting next month for final adoption.
The scheme puts in place support of up to 80 per cent discounts for people in need of support due to financial hardship and is one of the ways that the council can support residents in difficult times.
Councillor Andy Bowden, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health, and temporary portfolio holder for finance, said: "The proposals for this year's programme will continue to provide the same levels of support for those in need. Over the years this scheme as supported so many residents, from our care leavers on their first steps into adulthood, through to our older residents who have spent their life supporting our communities."
The scheme supports those who are eligible for help towards the cost of their Council Tax if they are on a low income or claim certain benefits, including Universal Credit (UC). It is open to applications whether you own your home, rent, are unemployed or working.
The level of support received is calculated by looking at the household's income, savings and circumstances.
To find out more about the Council Tax Reduction Scheme visit: Council Tax Reduction - St Helens Borough Council
The strategy will be discussed at Cabinet on Wednesday, 25th February at 4pm. You can find out more about the strategy and watch the meeting online here: Agenda for Cabinet on Wednesday, 25th February, 2026, 4.00 pm St Helens Borough Council