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Youth

Snak Shak Youth Service Denied Council Tax Relief

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The trustees of the Snak Shak, a popular youth service in Selsey, are facing financial difficulties after the Chichester District Council (CDC) denied them discretionary relief on council tax. The Snak Shak, which is a registered charity, usually receives 80% relief on the council tax levied on its warehouse home in High Street. However, for the past year, the council has not provided the discretionary relief of £500 that the trustees rely on to run the service. Trustee Gerry Smith described the situation as "absolutely ridiculous" and stated that donations from the public are now being spent on providing a service that the council should be providing.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Snak Shak, a registered charity, has seen a £500 annual reduction in discretionary relief on council tax, which is essential for running the youth service.
  • The council tax relief applies to 365 days of the year, but the Snak Shak is required to be closed for 91 days per year, defying common sense.
  • The CDC's policy change resulted in the denial of discretionary relief to the Snak Shak, which failed to meet the new criteria for application.
  • The Snak Shak relies on 26 unpaid volunteers to staff the center and seven unpaid trustees to manage the organization.
  • The decision has sparked concerns among supporters and the community, who feel that the council should be providing the necessary support for a service that benefits the community.
  • Gerry Smith, a trustee of the Snak Shak, expressed frustration with the council's decision and the impact it has on the youth service.

Statistics:

  • The Snak Shak pays £500 per year in council tax, which is a significant burden on the charity.
  • The charity receives 80% mandatory relief on its business rates, which leaves 20% remaining to be covered.
  • The council's new policy, which reviews discretionary rate relief, affects all applicants, including charitable organizations.
  • There is a 12-month notice period for recipients of discretionary rate relief to adjust their budgetary requirements.
  • The Snak Shak has been unable to secure discretionary relief for the past year, despite relying on it to fund its operations.

Sources:

  • "Trustees of popular youth service in Selsey feel like they are in 'Wonderland' after council tax relief is denied." (no specific date mentioned)
  • Chichester District Council statement on discretionary rate relief (no specific date mentioned)

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