Sara Hawthorn 29 July 2014

Council leaders back tax discounts for ‘community heroes’

Around 500,000 community volunteers should benefit from a ‘community contribution discount’ and see 10% council tax cut – council chiefs claim.

Proposals put forward by the Local Government Association (LGA) would allow councils across the country to roll out a national discount to those who donate their time to help run local services such as libraries and leisure centres.

According to the LGA, a £50m start-up fund could help half a million volunteers and encourage new volunteers to step forward, as well as save the public purse millions of pounds.

Specifically targeted at those who demonstrate a long-term commitment to improving life in their local area, the scheme follows calls from the LGA for Government to fully fund council tax support to protect discounts for those on low incomes.

LGA chair Cllr David Sparks said: ‘We need to do more to recognise and encourage people who give up their spare time for the good of their community. In some parts of the country, those who volunteer already receive a small discount. But with the huge cuts to local government budgets, it is an offer than many councils can't afford to make.

‘A community contribution discount would not only recognise the fantastic work volunteers do, but could help save the public purse many millions more than it costs. It can help raise the profile of volunteering and encourage a new generation of volunteers to step up.

‘Services run by councils help bind our communities together but growing populations and falling budgets mean that in the 21st century our role will be as much about helping people to help themselves.’

What’s happening inside the LGPS? image

What’s happening inside the LGPS?

Get the most informed take on the challenges and opportunities that substantial reform will bring at this year’s PLSA Local Authority Conference.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Audit

Cornwall Council
up to £87,644
Cornwall is at the forefront of innovation Cornwall
Recuriter: Cornwall Council

Head of Change & Portfolio Management

Cornwall Council
up to £87,644
Cornwall is at the forefront of innovation Cornwall
Recuriter: Cornwall Council

Director of Finance and Property Services

West Lothian Council
Up to £142,600
Nestled in the heart of Scotland, West Lothian is a vibrant region Livingston, West Lothian
Recuriter: West Lothian Council

Head of Revenues and Benefits

Ribble Valley Borough Council
£56,080 to £59,525 per annum plus 7.5% lease car contribution
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader for the position of Head of Revenues and Benefits. Clitheroe, Lancashire
Recuriter: Ribble Valley Borough Council

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Linkedin Banner