Council Tax help for Special Constables?

South Holland residents who serve as Special Constables could be eligible for a 25 per cent discount on their council tax bill.

Proposals due to go before the council’s cabinet on Tuesday outline the plans.

“The contribution Special Constables make in supporting their regular colleagues is invaluable; during the 12 months to the end of May 2020 the Special Constabulary contributed over 49,000 hours to Lincolnshire police,” says a report due to go before members.

Each member of the Special Constabulary has volunteered an average of 29 hours a month. They receive no pay for their work.

The county’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has written to all local authorities requesting the discount scheme be implemented.

There are around 140 Special Constables in the county, including a cohort of 20 going through training.

“The PCC wishes to recognise the huge contribution with Special Constables make to keeping our county safe and is proposing that they be offered a discount to the council tax charge.

“This would reward their community service and act as a positive incentive to assist police with recruitment and retention of Special Constables,” the report adds.

The total cost to the county, as some members live out of county, has been put at £53,000.

In South Holland there are 12 Specials which equates to a total council tax bill of £5.306 using Band D as an average.

If the Special Constable is a single occupier and already receiving 25 per cent single person discount, a further 25 per cent will be awarded to make a full 50 per cent reduction.

The award will only be made if the applicant is fully up to date with their council tax bills, the report adds.

The proposal will be discussed by Cabinet members who will also decide levels of support for next year’s council tax figures.

The total bill for council tax support in South Holland to the district council for the next financial year is put at £171,142.