Council Tax Support Extended for Care Leavers

The proposal will mean young people who have been in care will have more financial support as they move onto independent living. 

Those who leave care often have little choice over accommodation options. While being supported by the County Council’s leaving care service, care leavers are faced with a new set of responsibilities without the wide-ranging family support that most other people rely upon.  

Cotswold District Council hopes to help young people get a better start in life by extending Council Tax Support until they are 25. 

The proposal also includes expanding the support to Care Leavers who move into Cotswold District from outside of Gloucestershire County. Currently, the support is only available to people who received care in the county.  

Cllr Mike Evemy, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, said: "All young people setting up a home for the first time need support and guidance as they become adults.  

“We are really pleased to be proposing this change to help care leavers in our district get the best start in life. We hope this financial support will provide young people leaving care with the support and assistance they need to thrive independently, and we will continue to work with partners to support care leavers where we can. 

If approved by Full Council, the extended age eligibility for Council Tax reduction for Care Leavers will come into effect from April 1, 2024, in alignment with other Gloucestershire Councils. 

For more information about Council Tax Support, visit: cotswold.gov.uk/counciltaxsupport