There is now a new simpler way for people in Sidmouth to request help paying their council tax.

A new online portal and form make it much easier for people having financial difficulties, caused by the coronavirus pandemic, to apply for flexibility and reductions to their council tax.

District councillor Paul Millar has been spearheading the creation of the new system, which he hopes will help families and individuals who have had problems keeping up with their bills during the UK lock down.

"East Devon District Council have acceded to my request of offering a simpler mechanism for anyone suffering from financial difficulty due to the Coronavirus to apply for flexibility with their Council Tax instalments, and / or a reduction," said Mr Millar.

Mr Millar has highlighted the areas where your council tax is being used to directly help the community during the coronavirus outbreak.

-Housing residents who have made homelessness applications in the last few days. This includes residents escaping domestic violence.

- Supporting voluntary organisations providing emergency food parcels to those who have fallen on hard times.

- Supporting the survival and future prosperity of our local businesses.

Last week a spokesperson for East Devon District Council tweeted: "We are not suspending Council Tax instalments but if any Council Tax payer has difficulty in paying their instalments they should contact us and we will assess the matter with them on a case by case basis. Please call: 01395 517446 or email: [email protected]."

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