Council tax reduction support | Policy in Practice

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Harnessing data for regional impact: empowering local leaders to drive change Devolution is one of the core missions of the new government, promising a strong focus on giving local areas more control over services. To tackle economic inactivity, and with many people across the UK needing support, it’s vital that local authorities deliver effective, targeted interventions. The success of tailored, region-specific approaches depends on how well local areas can harness data to drive change.

Local organisations, from Mayoral Combined Authorities to county councils, need to deliver these crucial services. Accessing and using the data insights required to implement efficient and effective programmes is a challenge and, without localised data, decision making can become less accurate. This leads to inefficient resource allocation and missed opportunities to reach those who need help the most.

Data analysis offers the key to overcoming these challenges. By harnessing the power of local data, authorities can get the accurate insights they need to target support where it will be most effective. With the right insights, local areas can design and deliver services that are more tailored, timely and impactful, ensuring the right residents get the right support at the right time.

Proven results from current data led initiatives already show the transformative potential of this approach.

Join this webinar to hear hear about local authorities who have successfully implemented data driven campaigns. They will showcase real world examples of how they have come together to achieve measurable outcomes.

We’ll also explore how these data insights can be applied to address key issues like economic inactivity, youth unemployment and social isolation to deliver lasting change across regions.

21/5/2025

10:30am BST

1.3 hours

Understanding the impact of disability benefits reforms on local authorities

27/8/2025

10:30am BST

1.3 hours

Explore the national picture of Council Tax Support and discover how to build better, fairer CTR schemes for your residents

Council Tax arrears in England have hit a record £6 billion. At the same time, support for low income households is shrinking, leaving many unable to pay their bills and putting pressure on local collection rates.

As local authorities prepare for structural change, benefit reforms, and ongoing financial pressures, a new report from Policy in Practice offers the most comprehensive analysis of Council Tax Reduction (CTR) schemes in recent years.

Join Rachael Walker, Izabel Bahia and Zoe Charlesworth as they unpack a decade of CTR changes, discuss the impact of upcoming reforms, and share guidance on designing schemes that are fair, effective, and financially sustainable.

Download our free report to get

Five years of data from 150 CTR schemes across 35 councils
A breakdown of national trends, arrears patterns, and scheme variations
Recommendations for simplifying administration, improving support, and reducing arrears
Practical steps to unify schemes ahead of Local Government Reorganisation