ANYBODY struggling for money during the coronavirus crisis will be able to defer council tax payments.
Swindon Borough Council announced yesterday taxpayers who are finding it difficult to make ends meet can delay the first 2020/21 instalment, which is due this month.

The move follow a similar announcement by Wiltshire Council and a number of other local authorities.

Deputy council leader and cabinet member for finance Russell Holland said: “The council is doing everything possible to help residents in this very difficult situation. I am extremely grateful to everyone who is continuing to work to help people. This includes our NHS staff, police, carers and everyone connected with the supply of food, energy and other vital services.

“We are aware that there are many people who may be finding it difficult to pay their council tax because of the impact of Covid-19.

 "Anyone who is struggling to pay should contact the council urgently on 0345 302 2316. We will be able to help people who may now be eligible for council tax support and also reschedule payments.

“It is important to keep in mind that the vital services that the council is continuing to provide for vulnerable adults and children are all paid for using council tax. Like any organisation, the council must maintain its income while treating people fairly during a difficult time. 

"Because of this it is not possible to provide a delay in payment for everyone but rather provide help and support to people in need.

“This is in line with what many other councils, including Wiltshire Council, are doing and we have already helped a number of people who have contacted us.”
Council Labour and Lib Dem leaders Jim Grant, Stan Pajak had called for people to be given more time before they start paying.

Coun Pajak wanted central government to pick up the slack and pay for three months to keep councils funded. 

He said: “Alas this is the only response local councils can give. Deferring payment or suggesting available existing discounts is a help but simply not enough for many people. 

“There has to be an initiative by government to support local councils and residents by cancelling council tax amid the crisis, with the necessary funding for this coming direct from government.”

Coun Grant said: “Given the number of people who have claimed Universal Credit and the many more who are likely to be claiming in the coming weeks I think a deferment of payment  of council tax is vital as will make sure it covers all people who might be struggling.  

"The council and the government have taken a similar approach to all private companies and rightly so. They didn’t ask those companies who were struggling to claim support – the suspension was across the board.  This approach should be extended to council tax payers. Any immediate shortfall in income for the council can be covered by use of its financial reserves – unforeseen, emergencies like the coronavirus is exactly the reason a council has reserves.

"The council is doing a good job under very pressurised circumstances and I commend officers and others for their efforts.

“The council should reconsider its decision on this."