Hounslow's Council Tax for 2024/25
Dear Resident,
As a council we ensure people have access to the local services they need. We look after some of the most vulnerable in our society, provide education and training, support businesses, and plan ahead for more housing and better job opportunities.
We maintain our roads, town centres, parks and green spaces, keep our streets clean and safe and help people to live healthy, independent lives.
I am immensely proud of what we have achieved this year, working alongside Hounslow’s communities and our partner organisations. However, it is clear that the UK economy is in real difficulty, and as a council we are under financial pressure as we face the combined impact of soaring inflation and rising demand for vital services.
We estimate our costs will rise by up to £16million this year because of inflation alone. On top of that growing need for support for children with special needs and disabilities, as well as social care for both children and adults, is expected to cost us an additional £9million.
As Council Leader I have a duty to make sure that we set a budget that will enable us to continue to deliver for residents.
Although we have carefully managed our finances over many years, we do still need to take action to balance the books.
Despite more than a decade of government cuts, we’ve worked hard to find a further £3million savings and we will continually look for ways to save money and offer the best possible value. This year we have also taken the decision to draw from our reserves to help cover running costs.
Unfortunately, these measures alone are not enough so we also need to raise Council Tax to ensure a balanced budget.
I fully appreciate this is an added cost at a time when household finances are already stretched.
We still offer one of the most generous council tax support schemes in London and our council tax remains well below the national average. We will also continue to do all we can to support people struggling financially – you can find out more on our Cost of Living pages.
Despite the difficult circumstances, we remain absolutely committed to delivering on the things that really matter to residents.
Cllr Shantanu Rajawat
Leader of Hounslow Council
Residents can manage their Council Tax account online
Register at www.hounslow.gov.uk/counciltax to check your bill, set up a direct debit, claim Council Tax Support or tell us about any changes to your circumstances.
Find out more
Read more about Hounslow's Council Tax in the Council Tax precept booklet 2024/25.
