Financial support available in response to coronavirus

More households in Blackburn with Darwen could be eligible to receive extra council tax and housing support during the coronavirus crisis.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has been given an allocation of money from the Government’s Covid-19 Hardship Fund.

That means all recipients of working age council tax support during the current financial year will now receive up to a further £150 reduction in their annual council tax bill.

And due to the impact of coronavirus, more residents – including those placed on furlough schemes – could now be eligible for that council tax support and extra payment of up to £150.

The Council is keen to support all residents struggling financially because of the coronavirus. There are various other options available.

With your council tax, for example, we may be able to adjust your instalments and payment due date to ease the financial burden at this time.

We can also look at your current arrears and help you to avoid any extra costs or charges.

A discretionary housing and exceptional hardship fund may also be available for those who need additional help towards housing costs and/or council tax. Find out the qualifying criteria.

Find out more about the above support online or call: (01254) 585585

Councillor Vicky McGurk, Executive Member of Finance and Governance, said:

We know the massive financial impact that coronavirus has had on many households in Blackburn with Darwen and how people could be struggling to keep up with council tax payments, rent and other housing costs. We are keen to support.  

The Government has announced the national council tax relief scheme – this is welcome support and we want as many eligible people as possible to benefit. If you’ve had a drop in income as a result of the coronavirus crisis you might be eligible. Equally, if you’re struggling with rent or housing costs including council tax, the hardship fund could be a good option. Contact us to find out more.

And if you’re working and you’re not eligible for any benefits but are struggling to meet payments, talk to us and we’ll try and be flexible and work with you.