Council support during 'ever present' cost of living crisis

Among the various measures that the council has taken to address the impact of the cost of living crisis, the adoption of a Council Tax Reduction Scheme has given financial assistance to around 3,500 of the most disadvantaged working-age residents. The scheme has allowed about 2,000 of those experiencing the greatest hardship to not pay any council tax at all.

Councillor Nicholson said:

"It is vital we continue to fund support for residents in the greatest need.  The cost of living crisis remains ever present in local communities and we will always do whatever we can to help.  Any suggestion that the crisis is behind us is simply not true, many families continue to struggle terribly with everyday living costs."

The latest issue of DN, the council magazine, will be delivered to homes in the district soon and includes more information about where people can access support if they need it.  Additionally, Lewes District Council has agreed almost £250,000 in community grants for 20 local charities and projects that support a range of local causes.

Councillor Nicholson was speaking following a meeting today (February 6) where Cabinet met to discuss the 2025 / 2026 council budget and limiting the council tax increase to 13p a week. This 2.99% increase for 2025/26 equates to an extra £6.82 a year for a Band D property.

Councillor Nicholson added:

"This has been another extremely challenging year financially for councils across the country due to a combination of factors including inflation, increased demands on services, high energy costs, issues caused by the war in Ukraine and a lack of financial support from government.

"However, through prudent management, identifying efficiencies, and making savings, we have balanced the books and continue to invest in priority areas such as delivering high quality services, building affordable homes, tackling the climate and nature emergencies, creating sustainable community wealth and supporting local people through hard times."

Lewes District Council only receives 10% of the council tax bill, while East Sussex County Council receives the most at 71%. The remaining 19% is split between the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, East Sussex Fire Authority, and town and parish councils.

The annual increase proposed by East Sussex County Council for its share of council tax is 4.99%, which equates to an increase of £1.70 a week for a Band D bill or £88.74 a year.

Today's Cabinet recommendation will be decided upon at the next Full Council meeting.

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