Have your say on proposed changes to Council Tax Support in Cheshire East

20 October 2026

Residents, businesses and organisations across Cheshire East are being invited to have their say on proposed changes to the council's Council Tax Support scheme for working-age households. 

At a meeting earlier this month, Cheshire East Council's cabinet approved a 12-week public consultation on proposed changes to the scheme, which currently provides around £22 million of support each year, helping thousands of households with their council tax bills. 

The proposed changes are intended to help ensure the scheme remains fair, consistent and sustainable for the future, while continuing to provide support for residents on low incomes.

 A review of the current scheme highlighted a number of issues that need to be considered, including fairness between households, consistency of treatment, support for residents least able to pay, household financial resilience, and the long-term sustainability of the scheme. Independent modelling work was used to develop the proposal that is now being consulted on. 

No decision has been made on whether the proposed changes will be implemented. Feedback received during the consultation will be considered alongside equality and financial impact assessments before any final decision is taken. 

Councillor Dawn Clark, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for finance, legal and enforcement, said: “We know that Council Tax Support makes a real difference to thousands of households across Cheshire East and we are committed to supporting residents who need help with their council tax bills. 

“However, we have a responsibility to make sure it remains fair, targeted and sustainable for the future so that support remains available to the residents who need it most. 

“We are keen to hear from residents, businesses, community organisations and anyone else with an interest in these proposals. Whether you currently receive Council Tax Support or not, I would encourage you to take part in the consultation and share your views. 

"We also recognise that many households are already under financial pressure. We would encourage anyone who is struggling financially to contact us as early as possible rather than waiting until the situation becomes more difficult. 

“A range of support is available, including help from our benefits and welfare teams to check people are receiving everything they are entitled to, access the Crisis and Resilience Fund, and explore other financial assistance and cost of living support.” 

Information about the Crisis and Resilience Fund, benefit support and wider help with the cost of living is available on the council’s website. 

After the consultation closes, the council will carefully consider all feedback received. A final report will be presented to cabinet and full council before any final decision is taken on the 2027/28 Council Tax Support scheme. 

The consultation ends on Sunday 10 January 2027. To take part and share your views, visit the council’s consultation and engagement hub at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/consultations.