SIC to make £150 cost of living payment to households receiving council tax reduction

SHETLAND households in receipt of council tax reduction will receive a £150 ‘cost of living’ contribution from the council.

Contributions will be made directly to council tax accounts for households which were on the reduction on 27 September 2023.

These payments will mean that more than 1,000 households in Shetland will be able to reduce instalments, create credit payments, or be able to divert money to other priorities.

Council tax reduction is a mean-tested benefit that can be applied for by households on a low income or in receipt of certain benefits.

The cost of living contribution has been made possible through the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Funding, received by the council from the Scottish Government to support the higher cost of living in Shetland this winter.   

Other measures include:

• Providing breakfasts to secondary school children across Shetland, from October to March next year
• Payment of holiday food payment to families in receipt of free school meals
• Supporting the St Ringan’s Hub and community pop-ins, for purchase of items, and delivery of cooking and budgeting.

These are being delivered by the council’s Anchor for Families and community learning and development teams.

SIC leader Emma Macdonald said: “This is a welcome contribution to households, as we enter the challenging winter months.

“As always, I encourage people to come forward to seek help and guidance, should they feel under pressure.”

Information is available on at www.shetland.gov.uk/costofliving or by phoning 0800 030 8780. Support is also available through St Ringan’s and community pop-ins.

Any householders who feel that they may qualify for a council tax reduction can find more details and apply online.