‘Scare letter’ all too taxing for Betty

A WIDOW has taken Oldham Council to task over using “scare tactics” during a review of council tax payments.

Betty Marsden of Chadderton, received a letter about a single person’s discount review, which said that the authority believed her circumstances had changed and she would no longer be entitled to the discount. The letter explained that Oldham Council is reviewing all council tax accounts to ensure only those residents who are eligible to claim it are doing so.

But it went on to say if the council didn’t hear from her, it would cancel the discount and issue a new bill.

Mrs Marsden has been claiming the discount since the death of her husband two years ago.

Shelley Robinson, Betty’s daughter-in-law, said: “Oldham Council is using bullying tactics to scare vulnerable members of the community.

“It is sending these letters to people who live alone, which makes them believe someone thinks they have done something wrong.

“My mother-in-law was sick with worry and in floods of tears after reading that Oldham Council had reason to believe that her circumstances have changed.

“I think this is the council’s way of using scare tactics to catch out the odd people who are breaking the rules.”

She added the person the council suspected of living with Betty was... her late husband.

The council warned residents months ago it would be reviewing the status of the 34,492 households claiming 25 per cent discount.

Councillor Abdul Jabbar, cabinet member for finance, said: “We have made contact with Mrs Marsden to explain the reason the council issued the letters and have apologised for any distress caused.

Residents who have queries about their Single Person Discount account, can contact 0161-770 1112.