Support for households most in need of help backed by Cabinet
The support system that supports the households most in need of financial help has been backed by Cabinet.
Article date: 25 February 2026
The Council Tax Reduction Scheme from St Helens Borough Council provides 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: "We want to make sure that households who need our help are well supported, and this scheme allows us to fairly help our residents. Over the years this has meant that care leavers have been given extra help when setting up their own homes, as well as supporting older people who have spent their life supporting our communities.
"There are also a number of different reasons why people may be eligible for a reduced Council Tax rates or other benefits and we'd strongly recommend to anyone who may be struggling to take a look at the possible support that is out there."
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 plans to maintain the scheme at the same level this year will now go to Full Council on March 4th for final approval.