Supporting the implementation of Council Tax exemption for Scotland’s care leavers: Good practice note
Topic: Corporate parenting, Local authority, Throughcare and aftercare
Author: Kenny McGhee
Consistent and effective implementation of public policy can be challenging, and this is particularly so in relation to services and provisions for Scotland's care leavers.
In response to feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, CELCIS, in association with the Scottish Care Leavers Covenant Alliance, hosted a roundtable workshop and practice exchange discussion on 5 September 2018 for local authorities in their role as Corporate Parents, in the effective and consistent implementation of the Council Tax (Discounts) (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2018 (SSI, 2018 No.39) (the Regulations).
This workshop brought partners together to share positive practice, share solutions to issues experienced, identify actions to ensure full and consistent implementation of the Regulations, and to uphold the rights of eligible care leavers. Attendees included delegates from 13 local authorities, representatives from the Scottish Government, members of the Scottish Care Leavers Covenant Alliance, and care experienced young people.
This practice note is drawn from the discussion and outlines key considerations and a range of measures for local authorities to take as Corporate Parents to ensure consistent and effective implementation of the regulations, now established in law.