Swindon Borough Council extends Council Tax support for care leavers up to age 25
Young people to receive tax discounts regardless of location
Swindon Borough Council has approved a new policy extending Council Tax exemptions for care-experienced young people up to the age of 25, following budget approval on 26th February.
Previously, full Council Tax exemption or discounts were available to care leavers residing within the Borough until the age of 21.
The newly approved policy will expand support, offering access to Swindon care leavers regardless of their location, whether moving for work, education, or personal reasons.
Beginning with the 2026/27 financial year, the enhanced support will feature a tiered discount structure for care leavers:
They will receive a 100 per cent discount until turning 21.
From the ages of 21 to 22, care leavers will get a 75 per cent decrease in Council Tax.
The discount reduces to 50 per cent between the ages of 23 to 24.
Upon reaching the age of 25, standard Council Tax rules will resume, but national or local discounts might still be available based on individual situations.
Swindon Borough Council's initiative reflects its commitment to strengthening assistance for care-experienced young individuals.
Notably, the Council recently welcomed its first group of care-experienced interns, offering individualized workplace training.
Councillor Paul Dixon, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, advocates for the revised policy, emphasizing the importance of support for care leavers.
“I believe every young person deserves security, dignity and the chance to thrive. Our care leavers show extraordinary strength as they take on adult responsibilities, often without the support networks many of us rely on,” Dixon said.
“Extending Council Tax support to 25 is a practical, compassionate step that delivers on those values. It will make sure our young people receive the help they need, wherever life takes them.”