We recognise that there are some circumstances where debtors may be particularly disadvantaged. In some cases, the nature of their circumstances may mean that;
- they are unable to handle their own affairs
- they don’t understand the consequences of their actions without extra help,
- they have many debts which spiral and affect the whole family,
- the vulnerability has a detrimental effect on their quality of life and wellbeing.
There is no prescribed definition of vulnerability in council tax legislation. We assess individual cases which involve vulnerability on their own merits.
Characteristics leading to increased chances of vulnerability
Some characteristics could lead to an individual/household needing extra support around finances. If you think you fall in to one of the groups below, this does not mean that you are vulnerable. But, we may consider that you temporarily fall within the vulnerable characteristics.
- Elderly and/or infirm;
- Physically or mentally disabled person(s);
- Have a medical illness that may impair their ability to manage on a day-to-day basis
- Person(s) suffering from a serious or long term illness;
- A person who has difficulty in understanding English;
- A person that has difficulty in reading or writing
- Recently bereaved person(s);
- Single parents;
- Pregnant women;
- Care leaves aged 18 to 25
- Persons aged under 18
- Homeless persons
- Victims of domestic abuse
- Unemployed
- Low income and in receipt of Council Tax Support.
If we consider that you are vulnerable, we will handle your case with extreme sensitivity.
We can temporarily take certain actions to mitigate your immediate circumstances. This will be in place until a more long-term solution is resolved:
- Postponing or withdrawing recovery action
- Assisting and signposting to claim benefits, reductions or other financial help
- Providing documentation and information in an accessible and acceptable format
- Agreeing a temporary repayment arrangement with lower payments
- Informing other appropriate service areas within the Authority of any concerns about the customer’s safety or welfare
If you should be considered as a vulnerable person, you must call us straight away on 0191 278 7878 and ask for council tax. We may ask you to confirm your vulnerability, so you can receive the appropriate help.
