Charities’ relief at cut in rates

A SYSTEM which allows charity and voluntary organisations to pay reduced business rates has been agreed by Oldham Council.

The discretionary rate relief policy, which sees some groups pay no rates at all, sets out the guidelines that organisations must meet to qualify.

The first applications to be processed under the new policy have resulted in rate reductions for Action for Children, the Gaddum Centre, which runs the Princess Royal Centre for carers and manages Oldham Carers Centre, and Dr Kershaw’s Hospice charity shops.

Councillor Lynne Thompson, cabinet member for performance and value for public money, said: “Through discretionary rate relief many charities which provide important services to our citizens may not have to pay any business rates to Oldham Council at all this year.

“This will mean charities, such as Gaddum Centre or Dr Kershaw’s, can focus more of their funds on delivering key services, such as palliative care and disability services to the borough’s residents.”

The new policy also sets out the criteria for awarding hardship relief to businesses which are suffering temporary financial difficulties due to unforeseen and exceptional circumstances but are of significant public value.

And there are guidelines on rural rate relief which helps small shops and businesses providing valuable services in outlying communities.

For more information visit the website at www.oldham.gov.uk/business/business-rates/reliefs .