Care-experienced young people from Swindon will receive extended Council Tax support up to the age of 25, regardless of where they live in the UK, after councillors approved a new policy this week.
The decision was agreed as part of Swindon Borough Council’s latest budget, passed on 26 February.
The revised scheme expands on an earlier arrangement that offered full Council Tax exemption or discounts to care leavers living within the borough until the age of 21. Under the new policy, support will follow eligible young people even if they move elsewhere for work, study or personal reasons.
The enhanced support will apply to Council Tax bills for the 2026/27 financial year.
Under the new structure:
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Care leavers will receive a 100 per cent discount until their 21st birthday
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A 75 per cent discount from age 21 to 22
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A 50 per cent discount from age 23 to 24
From the age of 25, standard Council Tax rules will apply, although individuals may still qualify for national or local discounts depending on their circumstances.
The move forms part of the Council’s wider programme aimed at strengthening support for care-experienced young people. In the past year, the authority has introduced internship opportunities tailored specifically for care leavers and hosted partnership events focused on improving skills, employment prospects and independent living outcomes.
Councillor Paul Dixon, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said the extension recognises the additional challenges faced by those leaving care.
“I believe every young person deserves security, dignity and the chance to thrive,” he said.
“Our care leavers show extraordinary strength as they take on adult responsibilities, often without the support networks many of us rely on.
“It is our duty to support them by championing their ambitions, providing new opportunities and making sure they know their council is firmly on their side.
“Extending Council Tax support to 25 is a practical and compassionate step. It will ensure our young people receive the help they need, wherever life takes them.”
The policy places Swindon among councils choosing to extend financial assistance beyond the statutory minimum, recognising that many care-experienced young adults begin living independently earlier than their peers.
