Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Advice on how to reduce council tax and get help with rent.
There are discounts and exemptions available and the events will be informative and will offer practical help to people who should perhaps be paying less.

Come along to one of the following events and find out if you could reduce your council tax or rent payments:

1 November - Sainsbury's, Bradford on Avon

8 November - Cooper's Food Stores, Westbury

15 November - Sainsbury's, Melksham

15 November - Tesco's, Trowbridge

22 November - Morrison's, Warminster

29 November - Somerfield, Melksham

Did you know that the annual Council Tax bill assumes that there are at least two adults living at a property? If you are the only adult living in your home, you can claim a discount of 25 percent. There are also discounts or exemptions for students, carers, apprentices, second homes, those receiving care elsewhere and empty properties.

If your home has been converted for the use of a disabled person, you may be able to get a band reduction. Council Tax Benefits can help pay towards some or all of a Council Tax bill for those on low incomes, even for homeowners and those in employment.

Housing Benefits can help if you are on a low income and renting your property. The benefit is calculated based on the number of people in your home and the income of your household. You can be in receipt of other benefits, for example Job Seekers Allowance, or Pension Credit, working and receiving a low wage, or self employed and having difficulty paying your rent.

Roy While, finance portfolio holder, said: "The 'credit crunch' is affecting people and this council wants to do all it can to help. Our team are here to give advice so please get in touch with them."

For further information and advice on benefits and discounts contact West Wiltshire Council on 01225 776655 or visit the WWDC web site.