Council tax Plans to shake up debt system welcomed

BRISTOL campaigners and council leaders have welcomed a government shakeup of council tax to protect the most vulnerable families.

- Adam POSTANS

The reforms, aimed at making the system fairer, mean households will have more time and support to settle outstanding bills.

Under the current system, which has not been changed since 1993, just one missed monthly payment can leave people with a demand to pay the entire outstanding annual sum just two weeks later.

From next year, residents will be given 63 days to clear their debt and councils will be required to work with them on a sustainable repayment plan.

Local Government Secretary Steve Reed said: "Too many families are facing aggressive enforcement action, with people left terrified of bailiffs knocking on the door because one month's council tax bill was missed.

"We will stop this and make the system fairer by supporting families who fall behind."