Richmond Council is calling on residents to check whether they could be eligible for Council Tax Reduction, as part of its ongoing work to support households struggling with the rising cost of living.

The scheme offers discounts of up to 100% off Council Tax bills for those on low incomes or receiving certain benefits.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: "We know that many households – including here in Richmond upon Thames – continue to feel the pressure of rising costs.

"Council Tax Reduction is one of the most direct ways we can help residents manage those pressures and ease the burden on household budgets."

Recent figures from the Financial Conduct Authority show that one in four people in the UK are struggling to stay on top of their bills, with many lacking the savings to manage unexpected costs.

To ensure local support reaches those who need it most, the Council is running a borough-wide awareness campaign to highlight available help.

Using its Low Income Family Tracker, a data tool that identifies residents who may be missing out on financial assistance, the Council says it has already helped unlock over £8 million in savings for vulnerable households.

Cllr Jim Millard, Lead Member for Finance, added: "It isn't always possible to identify everyone who qualifies, which is why we're now writing directly to households across the borough to encourage them to check and apply. Even a small reduction can make a real difference."

Firoozeh Fattahi, Project and Development Manager at Citizens Advice Richmond, said:

"We see first-hand the challenges residents face in managing household bills – especially Council Tax – amid the cost of living crisis.

"Working alongside Richmond Council, we encourage anyone unsure about whether they may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction to get in contact. Even a brief conversation with an adviser can provide valuable guidance and reassurance."

Residents can check eligibility using the Council's online calculator.

Applications can be made online at www.richmond.gov.uk/benefits, or by calling 020 8891 1411 to request a paper form.

Anyone needing help to complete an application can contact the Council's benefits team by calling 020 8891 1411, emailing [email protected], or using the online contact form.

For further support and information, residents can visit the Richmond Cost of Living Hub for advice on household bills, employment and local services, or sign up for cost of living updates direct to their inbox.

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