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Households will have their council tax bills waived under a new scheme for working-age residents facing terminal illness in North Lincolnshire. According to the council, the move "means families can focus on spending time together and arranging care and support, not worrying about bills landing on the doormat."

Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for independent families at North Lincolnshire Council, said: "This will make a real difference to people at the most difficult point in their lives. We know that when someone is facing terminal illness, everything changes - emotionally, practically and financially.

"By removing council tax at that moment, we're giving people space to focus on their care, their family and the time that matters most, without that added pressure."

The scheme will run initially for two years while the council monitors take-up and impact. Similar schemes already exist in councils, including Barnet, Cheshire West, and Milton Keynes.

Council tax is an annual fee paid to local councils to fund services, and other households may also be eligible for reductions depending on location, income, and circumstances.

Pensioners, those on certain benefits, or those living with someone who is severely mentally impaired, may qualify for discounts or full exemptions.

For example, in Birmingham, households on benefits like Universal Credit or Employment Support Allowance can apply for means-tested Council Tax Support. In Manchester, support is available through Universal Credit applications, and payments can be spread to reduce bills.

Pensioners may also qualify for discounts, with up to 100% off for those on Guarantee Credit, partial help for low-income households with savings under £16,000, and 25% discounts for those living alone or with someone severely mentally impaired.

To apply for a council tax reduction, contact your local council directly. If you're unsure which council covers your area, you can use the tool on the Government's website.

If your application is refused, you can request a review from the council within two months, explaining why you believe the decision is wrong. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can appeal to the Valuation Tribunal Service.

Finally, in case you're having difficulty paying your council tax, contact your council as soon as possible for advice and support.