Angela Rayner Humiliated for Ignoring Tax Breaks for Dementia Sufferers – ‘Cruel and Shocking

Angela Rayner has been urged to make it easier for people to claim council tax discounts, especially those with dementia, who may not know they are eligible.

Many people with mental impairments are missing out on tax reductions because the information isn’t well-publicized. Angela Rayner, Labour’s deputy leader, was asked if she would promote her department’s guidance in simple language to help people understand how to pay the correct amount of tax. However, a government minister said there are no plans for a publicity campaign.

Martin Lewis, a well-known financial expert, called the discount for people with “severe mental impairments” poorly publicized and underused.

Before the election, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said councils should do more to ensure eligible people can claim their discounts. He promised to work with local leaders to make this happen.

Kevin Hollinrake, Shadow Local Government Secretary, criticized Labour for not supporting vulnerable people with dementia to claim their council tax discounts. He said the government had previously provided a free guide to help people understand their eligibility.

By law, homes occupied only by people with severe mental impairments are exempt from council tax. If such a person shares a home with one other adult, they qualify for a “single person discount,” reducing the bill.

A government spokesperson said it is untrue that they don’t support people with dementia. They confirmed there has been no change in policy and that the free guide is still available to help people understand their rights.