Since going live with applications for the Council Tax Energy Scheme on 12 March Mid Devon District Council has paid out almost two million pounds.

The Council has paid a total of £1,957,350 to eligible Mid Devon households following its first round of payments; almost half of the budget provided by the Government (46%).

More than 13,000 households in Mid Devon have received payments so far with around another 10,000 households set to be paid over the coming weeks. The majority of payments have been paid straight into individuals’ accounts, with others requesting the difference to be offset from their Council Tax bill.

Councillor Dennis Knowles, Cabinet Member for Community Well Being, said:

“It has been a huge undertaking for everyone involved and an enormous amount of effort has been put in to make sure households receive their payments in a timely manner.

“Everyone has been affected in some way by the rising energy prices and rising cost of living. We hope that these payments can help to release some of those financial pressures.”

All occupied Mid Devon households, in council tax band A-D, are eligible for the £150 rebate, which does not need to be repaid. This means 4 out of 5 households in England will benefit, including around 95% of rented properties. Second homes or empty properties will not qualify.

For those whose property falls in bands E to H there is a discretionary scheme which bill payers can apply to.

The Council also offers a range of support to people in financial difficulties and we would encourage you to get in touch if you are facing difficulties paying your bills, need help with budgeting or are struggling to access food.

To check your council tax band visit the gov.uk website.