Council 'to work with residents' over council tax payments during coronavirus

Speaking to the Bucks Herald, Council leader Martin Tett said 'life is difficult enough at the moment' and did not want people to be worrying about council tax.

He said: "Life is difficult enough and I know people's circumstances will vary tremendously as we all learn to cope as best we can with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

"My strong advice is to continue to pay if you possibly can. However I would urge any resident that is expecting difficulties in making their council tax payments to let us know so we can work through issues together in a sensible and pragmatic way.”

Last night Prime Minister Boris Johnson has all but locked down the United Kingdom to stop the spread of coronavirus across the UK.

Earlier last week, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced the Government would for the first time step in and pay people’s wages, as he launched an unprecedented economic rescue plan.

The Government will cover 80% of the salaries of retained workers up to £2,500 per month, and defer the next quarter of VAT payments due from businesses. He also outlined £6bn of extra support for the welfare system.

There is still some uncertainty around self-employed workers, and whether the Government will move to help them.

Martin added, “Councils will be getting a share of £500m from the Government to support residents that are economically vulnerable. The Council is waiting for Government guidance on the criteria and how this will be distributed. Details will be published on the Council’s website as soon as this is available.”

There are a number of debt advice services available from charities and voluntary agencies. If people are facing financial difficulty they can also obtain advice and support from organisations like Citizens Advice, Step Change or the National Debt Line.