Council tax support was given to a young person placed out of authority in need of financial assistance. This had a positive impact and has since been rolled our further.
The challenge
A young person was placed out of authority and had built a life there which included a boyfriend and a supportive family. Post-18 she chose to continue to live out of authority and become pregnant.
The policy at the time was young people placed out of authority were responsible for council tax. This individual wanted to remain in the area so her baby was close to its father and grandparents, as she wanted her child to have family support, since her own family were estranged. However, she was struggling to manage her tenancy due to costs.
The solution
Consultation was undertaken with the care leavers voice group where it was identified that there were other young people living out of authority who were being disadvantaged by this policy, through no fault of their own. The group felt the policy was unfair and wanted to progress this to the Corporate Parenting Board (CPB) to ask for change. The CPB listened to the case and took action to ensure funds were made available for the provision of support.
The impact
The individual in question was able to live in a home of her choice where she felt secure, comfortable and supported, and was able to enjoy her right to family life. Council tax support made the property more affordable and she has since been able to secure part-time employment as a result of the financial assistance she received, and the emotional support provided by her boyfriend’s family. The family are now thriving.
How is the new approach being sustained?
Through the CPB, the council have been able to secure further funding to provide council tax support to other young people placed out of authority, and this is now reflected in their local offer.
Lessons learned
Further consideration needs to be given to policies to ensure they are fair and equitable for all.