Hard-up residents across Medway have been awarded nearly £1.5 million in payments to reduce their council tax bills.

Medway Council is continuing to support people facing financial difficulties during the ongoing pandemic and has granted £1,440,000 in handouts.

All working age residents who are entitled to council tax reductions during the 2020-2021 financial year have automatically had up to £150 credited to their council tax account.

When the hardship payment has been awarded, they will receive a new bill with the Covid-19 hardship payment clearly marked. In the meantime, the council is encouraging residents to continue to pay the instalments shown on their current bill.

If residents’ circumstances have not changed, it is important that they continue to pay their 2020-2021 council tax instalments, as detailed on their bill.

However, anyone struggling to pay is encouraged to contact the council directly to discuss the support available, which may include extending instalments, deferring payments for a short period of time or applying for discretionary relief.

Council leader Cllr Alan Jarrett (Con) said: “The coronavirus pandemic has affected each and every one of us and we understand that it may have put additional financial strain on some residents.

"There is a range of support available for those who are struggling and I would encourage residents to contact our finance team directly to discuss their options.”

To find out more visit www.medway.gov.uk/coronavirusandcounciltax

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