Cherwell District Council has rubber-stamped a policy giving households awaiting Council Tax Support a vital financial boost.

The new Council Tax Support Fund intends to aid families facing significant economic hardships.

Residents receiving Council Tax Support as at 16 November 2023 with a balance to be paid for 2023/ 24 will benefit from up to £135 support, easing the burden of their 2023-24 Council Tax payments.

This credit is a significant increase from the previous £50, with an addition of £85.

Councillor Adam Nell, deputy leader and portfolio holder for finance, said: "One of our core goals is to help our vulnerable residents cope with the ongoing high cost of living.

"This new policy is about giving vital assistance to those who qualify for Council Tax Support.

"We want to ease their money worries and help out those going through tough times.

"This extra financial support should undoubtedly help them.

"We care about our residents and communities and are here to support everyone who needs it."

The funding for this initiative comes from Government grants amounting to £164,691, coupled with matched funds from Oxfordshire County Council.

The council plans to give eligible households the additional credit before 31 March 2024.

The policy was rubber-stamped by the Executive on January 8.