Council approves extension of Council Tax exemption for care leavers

Care‑experienced young people will benefit from extended Council Tax support up to the age of 25, no matter where they live in the UK, through Swindon Borough Council.

Following approval of Swindon Borough Council’s latest budget last night (26 Feb), a new policy will be introduced expanding an earlier scheme that provided full Council Tax exemption or discounts to care leavers living within the Borough until the age of 21.

Under the new arrangements, support will be available to all Swindon care leavers, regardless of where they move for work, study or personal reasons.

The enhanced support will apply to Council Tax bills issued for the 2026/27 financial year. Care leavers will receive:

• a 100 per cent discount until their 21st birthday
• a 75 per cent discount from the ages of 21 to 22
• a 50 per cent discount from the ages of 23 to 24

From the age of 25, standard Council Tax rules will apply, although national or local discounts may still be available depending on individual circumstances.

The policy builds on the Council’s ongoing work to strengthen support for care‑experienced young people. Last year, the Council welcomed its first group of care‑experienced interns, offering tailored workplace opportunities.

Earlier this week (24 Feb), the Council also brought local partners together for a dedicated event focused on improving skills, employment and life opportunities for young people, many of whom begin living independently far earlier than their peers.

Councillor Paul Dixon, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “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.

“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, compassionate step that delivers on those values. It will make sure our young people receive the help they need, wherever life takes them.”