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Press Release

6 December 2024

Exceptional Hardship Scheme announced by Fareham Borough Council

Fareham Borough Council has set aside money from its reserves to help households suffering from severe, exceptional hardship as a result of the loss of winter fuel payments to pensioners. The new scheme will take the form of a discount of Council Tax liability for 2024/25 and be available on a first come, first served basis.

Cllr Simon Martin, Executive Leader of the Council, said: “Following the Government’s plan to cut the winter fuel payment, I have asked officers to stand ready to help the most vulnerable in our communities that will be directly affected by this cut. Of course, our first priority will continue to be supporting our residents to make the best use of all welfare options available to them, and we will continue to promote the uptake of pension credits. However, where it is clear that those experiencing severe hardship have no other option this winter, we have an exceptional hardship policy that can be utilised to relieve pressure on their council tax bills and enable them to use that money to heat their homes. The Council will be allocating specific funding for this scheme, using revenue reserves, as part of finalising this year’s revised budget.”

The scheme will only be available to pensioners who are liable for Council Tax, living in a low-income household in Fareham since 9 September 2024 and already in receipt of a means tested benefit such as Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support, but not for those eligible for Pensions Credit. The maximum value of help per household is a £200 reduction in Council Tax liability.

Full details of the scheme will be published on the Council’s website: Benefits - Pensionable Age in the coming days where applications may be made online or by phoning 01329 824656.

Applications should be made to the Council by 28 February 2025 and will be considered by a board made up of officers from the Council’s Revenues, Benefits and Housing Welfare Support teams.

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

The Exceptional hardship Scheme to counter loss of winter fuel payments 2024 will be delivered under section 13a(1c) of the Local Government Act 1992 (as inserted by Section 76 of the Local Government Act 2003).