DCC - Cost of living Support update

1st February

Cost of living header


Council Tax Support

council tax support

More people are eligible for help with their council tax bill than may realise it.

If you are on a low income you can apply for the Council Tax Support Scheme. The amount of help you get will depend on your household income and savings.

Regardless of your level of income or savings you can also get a council tax discount if you are the only person living in your house.

Some people are also classed as exempt from council tax. These include adults in full time education, people with a severe mental impairment (e.g. dementia) and people staying with you under the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme.

You may also get a reduction if someone in your property has a disability.

You can apply for the Council Tax Support Scheme through your local district or borough council.

Find out more about the Council Tax Support Scheme www.derbyshire.gov.uk/counciltaxhelp  

You can also find more information about council tax discounts and who is eligible at www.gov.uk/council-tax/who-has-to-pay


Prepayment energy vouchers

Prepayment energy vouchers

Hundreds of people on prepayment energy meters are missing out on cashing in.

29% of vouchers sent by energy companies to prepayment meter households have not been cashed yet – in total there’s around £115 million worth of vouchers still waiting to be claimed.

If you have a traditional prepayment meter then you will need redeem your vouchers at specific top-up points.

If you have a prepayment meter and haven't received your vouchers you need to get in touch with your energy supplier.

All vouchers will expire by the end of June 2023 so please redeem them as soon as possible.

Find out more about the £400 prepayment energy vouchers, and how to redeem your vouchers, here.


Dealing with debt

debt and financial support

Lots of people took out loans to cover the cost of the festive season and may now be struggling with repayments.

If you are worried about debt then National Debtline offers free, impartial advice.

You can also find out more about lower cost, safer borrowing and savings options with credit unions and community banks.  But always check the terms and conditions to ensure that any form of borrowing is suitable for you.

If your financial circumstances are causing you to feel anxious or worried then there is lots of mental health support available.

Visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/mentalhealthsupport to find out more.