It has been a couple of weeks since the last session. So, we have had a bumper session. Out of the discussion points we focused on social tariffs for broadband, and the ongoing issue of bad housing where housing benefit or universal credit is covering the rent. We also touched on the impact of sanctions.
Kevin Stewart of Erewash Borough Council also gave us a quick and comprehensive update on Business Rates and Council Tax.
One of the joys of the Monday sessions is the contribution not only from our fantastic panel, but also those who attend the sessions. This week we had excellent contributions from Kirsty Brooksmith of the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and Sean O’Sullivan from Reigate & Banstead Council.
It is worth going through the slide pack. There are some interesting summaries of a range of stories, which affect the administration of a busy Revenues and Benefits service. I would also draw your attention to the jobs section which is managed by our partner Business Smart.
There will be no sessions on the next two Mondays. Next week is Mayday Bank Holiday and then the following week is another Monday bank holiday to, if, I understand it correctly, celebrate Coronation Street. Where the Queen Vic is to be crowned the king of Emmerdale pubs. So, street parties all round. See you all on the 15th of May, when we already have Council Tax reform on the agenda.
Although it will be a while before you review your CTR scheme, it is worth considering redrafting it in clear and simple language. We will point out any areas where you might need to improve. For more information, please contact Malcolm at visionarynetwork.co.uk. During the process we will analyse your CTR scheme to make sure you’re completely comfortable with it so you’ll be in a better position to defend the scheme if it’s ever challenged.
The recording: https://bit.ly/VNIRBDG230424
The slide pack is attached links to the reports and tables mentioned in the slide pack and recording can be found below.
Here is the link to our WhatsApp group: https://bit.ly/3Qjrkqe
Please note: the slide pack holds additional slides covering other items of interest in the news and job adverts which are supplied in partnership by Business Smart (https://www.businesssmartsolutions.co.uk/).
Four benefit calculator companies, EntitledTo, Ferret, Policy in Practice, and InBest have asked you to provide them with copies of your 2023/24 Council Tax Scheme. This is to know how the schemes have changed, so they can update their online calculators. To make things easier there is a simple form to do this: https://bit.ly/CTR2324. One form for all four calculators.