Many SEND families are under huge financial pressure — and yet one of the biggest sources of help is rarely explained clearly.
If you have a disabled child or adult in your household, you may be entitled to significant council tax reductions. For some families, this can mean saving hundreds of pounds every year.
The problem?
Councils don’t automatically tell you.
And they don’t apply it unless you ask.
Here’s what you need to know.
1. The Disabled Band Reduction Scheme (DBRS)
This is one of the most overlooked forms of support for SEND families.
You may qualify if your home has been adapted or is used in a way that supports your child’s disability.
This includes:
- A room used mainly for your child’s needs (for example, therapy, regulation, specialist equipment)
- Extra space needed because of mobility or sensory needs
- Adaptations such as wider doorways or an additional bathroom
If approved, your home is treated as being in one council tax band lower, which reduces your bill.
Important things parents aren’t told:
- You do not need an EHCP
- You do not always need DLA or PIP
- The decision is based on how the space is used, not labels
You must apply through your local council.
2. Council Tax Reduction (CTR)
If you’re on a low income or receive benefits such as:
- Universal Credit
- Income-related ESA
- Income Support
You may be entitled to Council Tax Reduction.
This can:
- Reduce your bill significantly
- In some cases, reduce it to almost nothing
Each council sets its own rules, so eligibility varies by area — but many SEND families qualify and never apply.
3. Severe Mental Impairment (SMI) Discount
This applies to adults, not children — but it can still affect the household bill.
If an adult in the home has a condition that significantly affects their understanding or decision-making (for example, autism, learning disability, brain injury), and they receive certain benefits, they may be disregarded for council tax purposes.
This can:
- Reduce the number of “chargeable adults” in the home
- Lower the overall council tax bill
A GP or consultant usually needs to complete a short confirmation form.
4. These reductions are NOT automatic
This is the most important thing to understand.
Councils will not:
- Tell you this exists
- Apply it automatically
- Backdate it unless you ask
You must:
- Apply directly
- Provide evidence
- Challenge a refusal if needed
Many SEND families miss out simply because no one explains their rights.
5. How to apply
Go to your local council’s website and search for:
- “Disabled Band Reduction”
- “Council Tax Reduction”
- “Severe Mental Impairment Council Tax”
If you’re unsure what applies to you, apply anyway. The worst outcome is a no — but many families are surprised by a yes.
Final thoughts
SEND families already carry enough stress.
If there is support available to reduce your bills, you deserve to access it.
Council tax help exists — but only if you know where to look and are confident enough to ask.
If you need help understanding what you might qualify for, or what to say to your council, AskEllie is here to help.
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