A WHOPPING £123million in council tax relief has been claimed in Renfrewshire over the past decade.

Under the Council Tax Reduction scheme, residents who are struggling to make ends meet can save more than £800 on their annual bill.

Approximately 16,380 local households are receiving weekly reductions of around £15.75 each from the Scottish Government initiative, which marks its tenth anniversary in April.

More than 450,000 households – about one in five – in Scotland are in receipt of the weekly discount.

Around £258,000 per month is being claimed in Renfrewshire alone.
On average, claimants in Renfrewshire benefit to the tune of £819 per year.

This is higher than the current national average of £750.

However, the number and amount of local claimants is less than when the scheme was launched in April 2013.

Back then, 20,920 Renfrewshire residents were sharing £270,000 per month in reductions to their bills.

Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur, who is also the Scottish Government’s public finance minister, has urged local people to check if they are eligible for the scheme.

He told The Gazette: “The cost-of-living crisis is disproportionately affecting poorer households and now, more than ever, it is important that everyone is aware of the help available.

“Some people are also eligible for other council tax discounts or sometimes full exemptions, including students, people with disabilities and carers, amongst others.

“I urge people to check their eligibility for council tax reduction and other financial support by visiting our online resources or by contacting the local council.”

Visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/counciltaxreduction for more information.