RESIDENTS are being asked for their views on who should get help to pay council tax.

Vale of White Horse District Council is holding an eight-week public consultation to find out what people think of proposed changes to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, formerly known as council tax benefit, which could be made from April 2014.

Government ministers last year cut councils’ budget for the benefit by 10 per cent, but gave local authorities more power over the level of entitlement for the means-tested benefit.

Residents, community groups and organisations are invited to give their views through an online survey.

Council leader Matthew Barber said: “For 2013/14 we have had to supplement a shortfall in Government funding to support those on benefits, some of whom do not pay any council tax at all.

“If we continue to do this we would either need to increase council tax for everyone or have to make savings from some of the services we provide.

“I believe that our proposals will help those currently unemployed and seeking work, but continuing support for the first crucial months when they find a job.”

To have your say on the proposals visit whitehorsedc .gov.uk/haveyoursay Hard copies of the survey are being sent to 1,000 people across the district, including 500 whose entitlement to support may be affected by the changes.