This funding is targeted at benefit recipients classed as 'working-age' who qualify for Local Council Tax Support.

Instead of the recommended amount of £150, Royal Greenwich will initially increase the individual fund amount to £300. For the most vulnerable households, this amount could increase to £550. This support will help 6,290 residents, of which 2,332 will have no Council Tax to pay during 2020/2021. Any new Local Council Tax Support claimants between 2020/2021 will also receive help. 

Residents who are in receipt of Local Council Tax Support and who have a shortfall towards their bill in 2020/2021 will qualify for an initial reduction of up to £300, rising to potentially £550 for the most vulnerable.

Deputy leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Cllr Denise Scott-McDonald said:  

“We are really pleased to have received the additional funding, especially as we know that many households across the borough have been hit extremely hard during this pandemic. We hope that the extra support during these difficult times, will help those that need it most. To make the process as easy as possible, residents will not have to make a separate claim for this payment, we will notify all qualifying residents automatically and they will receive a new bill.” 

For any resident on a low income who has not applied for Council Tax Support, please apply. If you are unsure if you would qualify you can use our online calculator or you can speak to an adviser by contacting the Welfare Rights Service on 020 8921 6375 (available on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday).

Residents who qualify will receive a letter in the next few weeks.  

For more information visit: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/benefitsupport