Residents of Solihull have a range of options for financial support for those at the end-of-life. A range of support is available from the Council which is detailed below.
- Council Tax Reduction Scheme – this is available to residents on a low income who meet the eligibility criteria. The new income banded scheme introduced from 1 April 2025 is clearer and simpler for residents to understand if they may qualify for support based on their income. For those that are terminally ill, they are likely to be in receipt of a disability benefit such as Personal Independence Payments or Attendance Allowance. All disability benefits are disregarded (i.e. ignored) when calculating entitlement to Council Tax Reduction.
- Discretionary Grants/Household Support Fund – there are a variety of discretionary grants available to support those in financial hardship. A Discretionary Housing Payment can help with housing costs or we can support with rent deposits and rent in advance. Our Discretionary Crisis Fund scheme (currently funded via the Household Support Fund) can provide support with energy costs (electricity, gas, water), white goods such as washing machines, cookers; basic furniture such as beds, mattresses and wider support with things like blankets, warm clothing, school uniform and travel vouchers.
- Council Tax Discretionary Reduction in Liability Scheme – this scheme is available to any council taxpayer who is experiencing severe financial hardship through no fault of their own, be that a specific crisis or event. Whilst our scheme does not specifically mention terminal illness the scheme is available to any taxpayer to apply to for this support, including those that are terminally ill. If eligible we can look to reduce their council tax charge through a discretionary award.
Any resident who may require support with the above can contact our Financial Inclusion Team on 0121 704 6202 or via email at financialinclusion@solihull.gov.uk. Our Community Advice Hubs are also available for residents to seek support, including debt advice and welfare benefits advice. The Hub can check that the resident is receiving all the benefits they are entitled to and can also help to complete benefit forms if needed.
Ken Hawkins 