Take a slice out of your council tax - benefit claim take up campaign
Date press release issued: 1 April 2009
TAKE A SLICE OUT OF YOUR COUNCIL TAX
Harrogate Borough Council recognises the difficulties that many households are facing during the current economic downturn and is urging people to check whether they may be entitled to council tax benefit.
Council tax bills are currently being delivered and the council is joining with other councils across North Yorkshire to raise awareness of the help that may be available.
Many people do not realise that they may be eligible and the financial support they are missing out on could make a difference if they are struggling to make ends meet.
Councillor Andrew Jones, Cabinet Member for Resources, added that we must help those in our community who are struggling on low incomes and pensions and who are missing out on this important entitlement.
He said: "As well as this targeted approach, leaflets have been included in every council tax bill to generally raise awareness.
"We want to support those in our community who need help.
Last year when we ran a similar campaign an additional £60k was claimed locally.
This was a boost to the local economy and helped those most in need."
Information is available on the council's website http://www.harrogate.gov.uk/harrogate-856.
This includes an easy to use 'benefit calculator to check possible entitlement.
Enquiries can be made by telephoning 01423 556455 or by visiting the council's offices at Scottsdale House on Springfield Avenue, Harrogate.
ENDS
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Councillor Andrew Jones is available for comment on 01423 526165 or 07720 717463.
Further technical information is available from Alex Albertella, Benefits Services Manager, on 01423 556405.