northumberland

The overhauled system, providing relief from council tax for the poorest and most vulnerable households, created a banded scheme for the first time. Changes approved in January by all councillors mean 7,771 residents are now receiving less support. The previous scheme was costing the council £28 million a year. Conservative council bosses said the new system was fairer and targeted support at the lowest income houses, with 6,235 people receiving a higher level of support. But speaking in Parliament, Labour MP for Blyth and Ashington Ian Lavery said: “Changes to Northumberland county council’s