‘Unfair’ second homes council tax rules applied to those caring for elderly relatives

‘Unfair’ second homes council tax rules applied to those caring for elderly relatives

Torbay residents who are caring for sick and elderly relatives are currently liable to be charged double council tax as a second home premium by Conservative-run Torbay Council. These charges can add up to nearly £1600 a month!

Torquay resident Clive Nicholls sought help from the local MP, Liberal Democrat Steve Darling, after his 94 year old mother, who was living with him, was charged the premium. Clive said: ‘charging the second home premium when she manifestly does not have a second home but is unable to live on her own due to care needs seems completely unjust.’

Thankfully Steve Darling MP was able to see Clive’s mother’s situation resolved; however, Steve Darling said he was, ‘concerned that others might be facing similar pressures in Torbay.’

Councillor Swithin Long, leader of the Liberal Democrats on Torbay Council, commented: ‘The second homes premium makes sense, but only when it is applied with common sense. It should not be applied to those caring for their relatives. Liberal Democrat Councillors have been calling on the Conservative Administration for months to take a more compassionate and common sense approach to the second home premium but have been ignored.'

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