Disabled resident disputes council tax reduction rules in court

Judicial review hearing will examine Somerset’s council tax reduction scheme for universal credit claimants over two days in Bristol court. 

A hearing is due to take place from 6th until 7th May at the Bristol Administrative Court in a challenge to Somerset’s council tax reduction scheme. 

A disabled resident, Andy, is brining a judicial review over the way the council assesses entitlement to council tax support for people receiving universal credit. 

In January, the High Court granted permission for the case to proceed, meaning judges will now consider the arguments in full. 

Andy said he previously received a 100% council tax reduction, however, after being moved onto universal credit, he was issued with a bill despite him saying there was no change in his circumstances. 

The case raises wider questions about how councils across England design tax reduction schemes, which are intended to help people on low incomes. 

Andy said: ‘Ten months ago, I would never have anticipated that migrating from ESA to universal credit would lead to a judicial review. 

‘The Department for Work and Pensions gave reassurances that our income would be protected, so I was shocked and quite angry to receive a large council tax bill from Somerset Council after previously receiving a 100% council tax reduction.’

‘Their discriminatory scheme targets disabled people, many of whom are some of Somerset’s poorest residents,’he continued. ‘Therefore, challenging the council in court is important.

‘However, this process has not been easy, and I have found it difficult to deal with the council’s criticism without taking it personally. Thankfully, my legal team at Leigh Day has been very supportive, remaining professional, thoughtful and patient throughout.’

Judgement of the case is expected to be reserved and given at a later date.

Andy is represented by solicitors Carolin Ott and Aurelia Buelens of law firm Leigh Day. His legal team also includes barristers Tom Royston and Alexa Thompson of Garden Court North Chambers and Jack castle of Henderson Chambers. 

Image: Possessed Photography/UnSplash 

In related news:

Helen Bradley appointed new President of LLG

Southern Water pleads guilty to sea pollution charges