The Fairer Share Team

Why First-Time Buyers and Young Families Struggle to Get on the Property Ladder

For many first-time buyers and young families, owning a home feels further out of reach than ever. Over the past two decades, the average UK house price has surged from approximately £70,000 in 1998 to £224,000 in 2018, more than tripling in value. As of January 2025, the average house price stands at £267,200. This rapid increase has significantly outpaced wage growth, making homeownership increasingly unaffordable. In 2023, the average house price was 8.6 times the average annual disposable household income, up from 4.4 times in 1999.

These financial barriers have led to a decline in homeownership among young adults. In 2022–23, only 39% of individuals aged 25 to 34 owned their homes, a significant drop from 59% in 2000. This decline is particularly pronounced in urban areas like London, where only 26% of young residents own a home with a mortgage, compared to 36% outside the capital.

Even after securing a mortgage and purchasing a home, financial challenges persist. Ongoing expenses such as Council Tax, maintenance, and rising utility bills add to the financial strain, making it difficult for young homeowners to manage their budgets.​

With homeownership becoming increasingly difficult for young people, it's crucial to examine the factors hindering their ability to buy and own homes. Implementing policies that address these issues can help make homeownership more attainable and equitable for future generations.

The Barriers to Buying a First Home

Saving for a Deposit Takes Longer Than Ever

House prices have risen far faster than wages, making it increasingly difficult for young buyers to save enough for a deposit. In many parts of the country, buyers now need between £30,000 and £50,000 upfront just to secure a mortgage.

According to the Resolution Foundation, it now takes the average first-time buyer around 9 years to save for a deposit - and that's assuming they can save regularly. For many, homeownership is only possible with significant financial support from family, often dubbed the 'Bank of Mum and Dad'. In fact, more than half of all first-time buyers under 35 now rely on family help to get on the property ladder.

Meanwhile, rising rents are making it even harder for renters to save. With average rents hitting record highs, young people are often stuck in a cycle where they’re paying more each month in rent than they would on a mortgage - but can’t build up the deposit to break free.

Mortgage Affordability is a Growing Issue 

Even with a deposit, getting a mortgage is tougher than it used to be. Higher interest rates mean monthly repayments are more expensive, making lenders more cautious about approvals.  Many buyers are forced to take out longer mortgages (35-40 years) just to make payments manageable, increasing their overall debt.

First-Time Buyers Are Priced Out of Their Local Areas

Many young people find themselves pushed further away from where they grew up or work because local prices are too high. This means longer commutes, higher transport costs, and difficulty accessing family support for childcare. Some areas have seen a rise in second-home buyers and investors, driving up prices and pushing out locals.

The Hidden Costs of Homeownership

Once buyers secure a mortgage, they often underestimate the ongoing costs of owning a home.

These include:

• Council Tax - which can be surprisingly high, especially in lower-cost areas.
• Repairs and maintenance, which renters typically don’t have to worry about.
• Service charges in flats and leasehold properties, which can be an unexpected financial burden.

And we can’t forget Stamp Duty - a one-off cost paid upfront at the time of purchase. Unless they qualify for first-time buyer relief, many buyers still face thousands in additional charges just to complete the purchase. It’s another hurdle at a time when affordability is already stretched thin.

How Can We Make Homeownership Fairer for First-Time Buyers?

There’s no single fix, but policy changes could ease the financial strain on first-time buyers and young families, helping more people get on the property ladder.

One of the biggest hidden costs for homeowners is Council Tax - an outdated system that doesn’t fairly reflect property values. Many young buyers moving to affordable homes in lower-value areas end up paying disproportionately high Council Tax bills, which eat into their monthly budget.

And then there’s Stamp Duty, a one-off charge that adds thousands to the cost of buying a home. For buyers looking to move up the property ladder - especially growing families - this can be a major barrier.

Switching to a Proportional Property Tax (PPT) would make homeownership fairer by ensuring everyone pays the same percentage of their property’s actual value - not an outdated amount based on 1991 prices. It would also scrap Stamp Duty altogether, removing a major upfront cost for buyers.

This would mean:

• Lower annual bills for most first-time buyers and young families
• No Stamp Duty for anyone, at any stage of the ladder
• A tax system that reflects the true value of homes today
• More financial breathing room for those just starting out

For years, politicians have promised to help first-time buyers - but schemes like Help to Buy and shared ownership haven’t tackled the deeper issue: the cost of owning a home is unfairly high, especially for those just starting out.

A fairer tax system - like Proportional Property Tax - would not only ease the burden, but give a generation of would-be homeowners a fighting chance to get ahead.

If we want future generations to have a fair shot at homeownership, we need action now.
Join the movement for a modern, fair property tax system - because owning a home shouldn’t be a luxury, it should be an achievable goal for everyone.

Read more from Lord David Willetts here on why Council Tax reform is key to bridging the generational divide.

by The Fairer Share Team

Debunking the Myths: Common Misconceptions About Proportional Property Tax

When discussing tax reform, particularly a shift to Proportional Property Tax (PPT), misinformation can spread quickly. Some people assume it’s just another way to raise taxes, while others fear it could hurt homeowners. In reality, PPT is designed to be fairer, simpler, and more affordable than Council Tax.

Let’s break down some of the most common myths and set the record straight.

Myth 1: “PPT is Just Another Tax Increase”

Reality: PPT isn’t about raising more tax - it’s about taxing fairly. Under the current system, Council Tax is based on property valuations from 1991 - more than 30 years out of date. That means millions of people in modest homes are paying far more than their fair share, while those in high-value properties often pay less as a proportion of their home’s true value.

The PPT would replace Council Tax and Stamp Duty with a simple, transparent tax: 0.48% of a property’s current value. Nothing more, nothing less. It doesn’t raise more money overall - it’s revenue neutral - but it redistributes the burden more fairly across the country.

Under this fairer model, 77% of households would pay less than they do now, with average annual savings of £556. Families in lower and mid-value homes would benefit the most – while those in the highest-value properties would contribute more in line with the true value of their assets.

This isn’t about punishing success. It’s about modernising a broken system so that everyone pays their fair share based on what their property is actually worth today – not what it was worth in 1991.

Myth 2: “Homeowners Will Be Forced to Sell Their Homes”

Reality: Some worry that switching to a proportional system could push homeowners out of their properties. In fact, PPT is designed to reduce unfair financial pressure, not increase it.

Many pensioners and families currently struggle with Council Tax bills that are disproportionately high for their home’s value. PPT would create a fairer system where those in modest homes pay less, while wealthy homeowners pay their fair share.

Plus, there could be safeguards such as deferral schemes for pensioners and gradual phase-in periods to ensure no one faces sudden financial hardship.

Myth 3: “Landlords Will Just Pass the Costs Onto Renters”

Reality: While some landlords may pass on part of the cost, most renters live in lower-value properties - meaning they’ll still benefit overall.

Under the current system, renters are hit hard. Although Council Tax is technically a property tax, it’s tenants – not landlords – who pay it. This often means people renting modest homes are charged a higher effective tax rate than those living in much more expensive properties.

With a PPT, the responsibility for paying the tax would shift to the property owner – the landlord – not the tenant. While some of this cost may be reflected in rent over time, most rental properties are in lower-value bands. That means the overall tax bill on these properties would go down under PPT – and with it, the pressure to raise rents.

This shift would create a fairer, more transparent system. Landlords would pay tax based on what their property is actually worth, and renters would no longer carry the disproportionate burden of a broken Council Tax system.

Myth 4: “Council Tax Reform Isn’t a Priority Right Now”**

Reality: The cost-of-living crisis means people are struggling more than ever. Council Tax bills are rising across the country, but because the system is so outdated, the increases don’t affect everyone fairly.

Switching to PPT would immediately reduce tax bills for millions of households, providing much-needed financial relief without cutting local services.

Myth 5: “The Current System Works Fine”

Reality: The Council Tax system is fundamentally broken. A home in the North of England worth £100,000 might pay the same (or more) in tax than a London townhouse worth £1 million. That’s because Council Tax bands haven’t been updated since 1991, meaning people in cheaper homes are stuck overpaying while the wealthiest homeowners contribute far less than they should.

PPT would eliminate this outdated, unfair system and introduce a simpler, more transparent approach, where what you pay is directly tied to your home’s real value.

PPT isn’t about increasing taxes, it’s about fixing an unfair system that punishes ordinary families. By replacing Council Tax with a straightforward percentage-based tax, we can make homeownership and renting more affordable, fairer, and fit for the 21st century.

If you believe in a fairer tax system, support the campaign today! Sign up, spread the word, and help bring real change to the way we fund local services.  

by The Fairer Share Team

James’ Story: Why Council Tax is Pushing People to the Brink

We recently caught up with James, a retired 61-year-old from Preston, who has been living in his home since 2003. Over the years, James has watched his Council Tax bill skyrocket while struggling to see the benefits. His annual bill now stands at £2,100, his biggest expense, which he describes as a bigger financial strain than the energy crisis. Here's what James had to say during our chat.

"Council Tax is totally unfair"

James is deeply frustrated with the system. He moved from Luton, where he paid significantly less, and is angry at the huge regional disparities that make areas like Preston pay more while wealthier households contribute proportionally less. He also points out that Council Tax bands are still based on outdated 1991 valuations, meaning people are paying taxes that don’t reflect the true value of their homes today.

"Have I been overpaying?"

James has checked whether his home is in the correct Council Tax band, comparing it to other houses on his street. Most of the homes on his road are Band C, except for one mid-terrace house which is Band B. While his banding appears consistent, he still believes the entire system is flawed and punishes ordinary homeowners unfairly.

"Where is my money going?"

Despite paying thousands each year, James does not feel he is getting value for money. While he hasn’t personally noticed a decline in services, he believes a significant chunk of Council Tax is going towards council pensions rather than public services. He’s read that a quarter of Council Tax revenue goes into local authority pension schemes, leaving less for schools, policing, and local improvements.

"The rich get a better deal"

James finds it deeply unfair that wealthier households pay a lower share of their income in Council Tax than those on lower incomes. He has checked how much other areas pay and was shocked to find that Preston ranks high on the list of Council Tax burdens. For him, the current system punishes ordinary homeowners while protecting those with greater wealth.

"A Proportional Property Tax would halve my bill"

James is fully in favour of reform, believing that a Proportional Property Tax  would dramatically reduce his Council Tax bill and ease the financial strain on millions. He also supports the idea of scrapping Stamp Duty and believes the government should help older generations downsize more easily if they choose to.

"If nothing changes, there will be a revolt"

When asked what will happen if Council Tax continues to rise without reform, James doesn’t hold back: “More debt, more people struggling, and possibly even a revolt.” He feels that without intervention, more households will fall into Council Tax arrears, creating an unsustainable cycle of financial hardship.

"We need to speak out"

James wants others in similar positions to raise their voices. He has been involved in campaigning for winter fuel support with Age UK and believes that collective action can bring change. He also fully supports Fairer Share’s campaign for Council Tax reform, describing it as a crucial step towards levelling up.

For James, the North-South divide in taxation is unacceptable, and reforming Council Tax is essential for fairness and financial security. His message to the government is clear: “The current system is outdated and unfair - it’s time for a tax that reflects today’s reality, not the early ’90s.”

by The Fairer Share Team

Council Tax Debate in the House of Commons: Where Were the MPs?

Council Tax is outdated, unfair, and punishing those who can least afford it – yet Parliament was nearly EMPTY for this crucial debate!

In this video, we bring you yesterday’s House of Commons debate on Council Tax reform, where Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash delivered a powerful speech calling for urgent change. Alongside him, Grahame Morris, Luke Myer, and other MPs made valid and compelling arguments highlighting the deep unfairness of the current system.

A huge thank you to Jonathan for his excellent speech and to all the MPs who contributed to this important discussion. It’s time to fix this broken system and ensure a fairer way for everyone. It was great to see Fairer Share mentioned too, with Jonathan highlighting the need for a Proportional Property Tax – this is progress.

Shocking Facts from the Debate:

• A Band A home in Westminster pays £648 a year, while in Hartlepool it’s £1,585 – more than double!
• The system is based on property values from 1991 – 34 years out of date!
• Council Tax in some areas takes 9% of median wages, while in Westminster it’s just 2%.
• £6 billion in Council Tax debt is already owed – the system is broken beyond repair.

So why was the chamber almost EMPTY?

Tax reform is long overdue – yet only a handful of MPs showed up to debate a fairer property tax. Millions face an outdated, unfair system, but Westminster seems asleep at the wheel. We need action, not apathy

Take action!

Email your MP here and ask why they didn’t take part in this crucial debate on Council Tax reform. Let them know this issue matters!

Sign the petition for a fairer tax system here.

by The Fairer Share Team

What Happens If you Can't Pay Your Council Tax? Your Rights & Options

With council tax bills rising again, more households are struggling to keep up with payments. Falling behind on council tax can be stressful, but it’s important to know your rights and what options are available to you.

What Happens If You Miss a Council Tax Payment?

First Reminder Notice

If you miss a payment, your local council will send you a reminder. You’ll usually have seven days to pay.

Second Reminder & Final Notice

If you miss another payment within the same year, you’ll get a second reminder. A third missed payment usually means you lose the right to pay in instalments, and the full annual bill becomes due.

Court Summons & Liability Order

If you don’t pay, the council can apply for a liability order from the magistrates’ court, giving them legal power to recover the debt.

How Councils Can Recover Unpaid Council Tax

Once a liability order is in place, councils can collect the unpaid amount in several ways:

• Deductions from Benefits or Wages -  If you receive Universal Credit, Employment Support Allowance, or other benefits, deductions can be taken directly. Your employer may also be ordered to take money from your wages.
• Bailiffs (Enforcement Agents) – If you don’t arrange a payment plan, the council may send bailiffs to recover the debt. This adds extra charges to what you owe.
• Charging Orders & Bankruptcy – In extreme cases, councils can secure the debt against your home or even apply for bankruptcy if you owe a large amount.

Your Rights: What Councils Can’t Do

• Sent to Prison – Prison for non-payment of Council Tax is a last resort, after all other attempts to recover the money have failed.

You won’t be imprisoned unless you wilfully refuse to pay despite having the means or are guilty of ‘culpable neglect’ (i.e. you could have paid but didn’t)

• Bailiffs Must Follow the Rules – They can’t enter your home by force, take essential items, or harass you.
• You Can Challenge Unfair Demands – If you think your bill is incorrect or your banding is wrong, you have the right to dispute it.

What to Do If You Can’t Afford Your Council Tax

• Contact Your Council Immediately – Many councils offer flexible payment plans or discounts for those in financial hardship.
• Check for Discounts & Exemptions – Single-person households, students, and low-income families may be eligible for reductions.
• Apply for Council Tax Support – Some councils offer schemes that reduce bills for people on low incomes.
• Seek Free Debt Advice – Charities like StepChange and Citizens Advice can help you manage your debt and negotiate with the council.

Time for Reform

The current council tax system is outdated and unfair, forcing many households into financial hardship. That’s why Fairer Share is campaigning for a Proportional Property Tax —a simpler, fairer alternative that ensures no one pays more than their fair share. Sign our petition here and help us fix this broken system.

by The Fairer Share Team

Mind the Mint: How a Small Hole Reveals Big Problems with Wealth Inequality

I recall wandering into our local WH Smiths to buy a packet of Polo mints for 4 pence in 1978 - a treat accessible to almost anyone. Fast forward to 2025, and the same packet costs around £1.75. While this might seem trivial, the story of Polo mints highlights a much deeper issue: the widening gap between incomes, the cost of living, and wealth inequality in the UK.

In 1978, the mean salary was £7,600 per year. At 4 pence per packet, it took less than 1 minute of work for the average worker to afford a pack of Polo mints. By 2025, with the mean salary rising to £37,430 annually, it now takes over 5 minutes of work to buy the same packet. This shift underscores how inflation and stagnating wages disproportionately impact low- and middle-income families. 

Why Have Polo Mints Become So Expensive?

Despite advancements in manufacturing efficiency, the price of everyday items has risen sharply due to inflation, rising raw material costs, and supply chain challenges. For low-income families, these price increases make essentials less affordable, compounding financial stress.

 The Bigger Picture: Inequality in Action

The rising cost of Polo mints is symbolic of broader economic challenges:

1. Stagnant Wage Growth: Real wages for most workers have not kept up with the cost of living, leaving less room for savings or discretionary spending.
2. Regressive Inflation Impact: Inflation hits everyday items harder, disproportionately affecting those on lower incomes while luxury goods remain relatively stable.
3. Wealth Concentration: The wealthiest 10% of households own nearly half of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 50% struggle to afford basic necessities. This imbalance limits social mobility and economic growth.
4. Unfair Property Taxation: In 1978, the mean household paid £70 annually in local Rates, equivalent to 2 days of work. By 2024, the mean Council Tax bill had risen to £1,966, requiring 14 days of work. This regressive system burdens those in lower-value properties while wealthier homeowners pay a lower effective tax rate.

 A Solution: Proportional Property Tax (PPT)

Fairer Share’s proposed Proportional Property Tax (PPT) offers a solution to these inequities. PPT would replace Council Tax and Stamp Duty with a system based on up-to-date property values. Key benefits include:

• Lower Bills for Millions: 76% of households would see a reduction in property tax bills, saving families an average of £550 annually.
• Fairness for All: Taxing properties proportionally ensures wealthier homeowners pay their fair share, reducing the burden on lower-value properties.
• Boosting Mobility: Abolishing Stamp Duty would make it easier for people to move, supporting economic flexibility.

While PPT will not make Polo mints any cheaper, it would leave more money in the pockets of low- and middle-income families, enabling them to enjoy small pleasures while easing financial pressure.

 The Social Consequences

Rising costs of everyday items, coupled with stagnant wages and regressive taxes, create a toxic cycle for low- and middle-income families. Over time, these micro-sacrifices erode quality of life and deepen economic divides. Meanwhile, the wealthiest continue to benefit from policies that favour asset accumulation, fostering resentment and social discontent.

 What Can Be Done?

Addressing these challenges requires bold action:

1. Fairer Tax Policies: Implement progressive reforms like PPT to ease the burden on ordinary families.
2. Targeted Inflation Support: Control the cost of essentials to protect vulnerable households.
3. Wealth Redistribution: Introduce fairer taxes on unearned income and inheritance to reduce inequality.
4. Strengthening Wages: Ensure earnings keep pace with living costs.

 The Time for Change Is Now

The story of Polo mints is a vivid reminder that while economic growth has advanced, its benefits have not been shared equitably. By adopting solutions like the Proportional Property Tax, the UK can take a significant step toward reducing inequality and supporting families. Now is the time to act, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the small but meaningful pleasures in life.

By Andrew Dixon OBE, Chairman of Fairer Share

by The Fairer Share Team

From Inequality to Inclusivity: Labour’s Vision for Fairer Property Taxes

Since taking office in July 2024, the Labour Government has faced mounting anticipation over how it will tackle the pressing challenges of economic inequality and regional disparities. Reforming the UK's outdated property tax system offers Labour a pivotal opportunity to deliver on its promise of building a fairer, more inclusive society.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Labour has signalled its intent to prioritize "levelling up" across the country. Angela Rayner, now overseeing the levelling-up brief, has emphasized the need for bold policies to tackle regional inequality and create opportunity for all. Yet, despite these ambitions, Labour has so far distanced itself from wealth taxes, citing economic prudence and a desire to maintain broad-based appeal.

Harry Lambert, writing in the New Statesman, criticizes Labour's refusal to adopt tax reforms that shift the tax burden from labour to capital and wealth. These reforms could raise substantial revenue, potentially funding green energy initiatives or cutting income taxes for most people, while also addressing wealth inequality and boosting economic growth.

Josh Ryan-Collins, in The Guardian, criticizes Rachel Reeves' rejection of wealth taxes and her implication that lower taxes on the wealthy will lead to prosperity (trickle-down economics). The article argues that the UK's tax system incentivizes rentier capitalism, where capital gains are taxed less than income, resulting in a misallocation of capital that stifles growth and productivity. It contends that taxing wealth and capital gains while increasing public spending can help control inflation and promote progressive deflation, aligning with recommendations from organizations like the OECD, IMF, and the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

In the context of this ongoing debate surrounding taxation policies in the UK, if outright wealth taxes are ruled out, it is crucial to at least reform more regressive and punitive property taxes, notably council tax and stamp duty. Indeed, The Financial Times’ Editorial Board argues that council tax, stamp duty, and business rates hinder productivity and economic growth. The board proposes replacing council tax with an annual proportional property value tax based on updated valuations, gradually reducing stamp duty, and reforming business rates. These changes aim to address inequality and promote growth.

Property tax reform, as outlined by The FT, Lambert and Ryan-Collins, can play a pivotal role in rectifying the regressive nature of the current tax system. Council tax, based on outdated property values, places a disproportionate burden on households in less affluent regions, exacerbating regional inequality. By pledging to replace council tax with an annual proportional property value tax, the Labour Party would demonstrate its dedication to levelling the playing field and ensuring that taxation is fair and equitable.

Furthermore, property tax reform would underscore the Labour Party's commitment to fiscal responsibility. While advocating for tax reforms, Labour acknowledges the importance of maintaining local government revenue. By carefully phasing in changes, introducing caps and reliefs for vulnerable households, and deferring payments until property sale or death, the party can strike a balance between fairness and financial stability. This balanced approach resonates with voters who value responsible economic management.

Importantly, property tax reform is a policy that can capture the attention and support of a broad spectrum of voters. Proportional property taxes are commonplace in many countries indicating their feasibility and acceptance among the public. The proposal to cut taxes for three in four people while raising necessary revenue can be an attractive proposition for voters and help deliver a persuasive campaign platform.

In conclusion, while wealth taxes may be off the table, reforming property taxes—specifically council tax and stamp duty—presents a clear opportunity for the Labour Party to demonstrate its commitment to addressing regional inequality, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and appealing to voters across the political spectrum. By championing policies that promote economic fairness and growth, Labour can distinguish itself and present a bold, compelling vision for a more equitable tax system and a fairer UK society.

By Andrew Dixon OBE, Chairman of Fairer Share

by The Fairer Share Team

Fix Council Tax or Face Farage: Labour Must Act to Protect the Red Wall

Since taking office, Labour has had the chance to show its commitment to fairness and change. But one question looms large: how will Labour safeguard the Red Wall constituencies that helped secure its majority? While national debates over the NHS, energy, and the economy dominate headlines, local issues often hold the key to winning voters’ trust. One such issue is the broken and deeply unfair Council Tax system. Reforming it presents both a pressing necessity and a significant opportunity for Labour.

 A Broken System That Penalises the Poor

Council Tax, introduced as a replacement for the Poll Tax in 1993, is based on property valuations frozen three decades ago. The result? A system that disproportionately burdens lower-income households—especially in Labour heartlands like the Red Wall—while offering generous breaks to the wealthiest.

Take this example: a family living in a £230,000 home in Hartlepool pays over £2,000 annually in Council Tax. Meanwhile, a household in a property worth £8 million in Westminster pays significantly less in Council Tax, highlighting a stark disparity. This injustice is glaring, perpetuating regional inequality and penalising working-class families.

Despite this, successive governments have dodged meaningful reform, fearful of upsetting affluent voters in Tory strongholds. Labour cannot afford such timidity. It must lead the charge, offering a bold and modernised vision for a fairer system.

 A Growing Threat from Nigel Farage and Reform UK

Labour’s opportunity to address Council Tax reform comes with a warning: inaction could cost dearly. Nigel Farage and Reform UK are circling, capitalising on immigration concerns and deep-seated economic frustrations in Labour’s traditional heartlands. Farage, with his trademark populist rhetoric, is positioning himself as the voice of the “forgotten working class.”

The Council Tax system is fertile ground for this narrative. Farage does not need detailed solutions; he simply needs to highlight Labour’s perceived inaction. By failing to address the issue, Labour risks ceding ground to a party that thrives on disillusionment and anger. Reform UK may lack substance, but their ability to capture attention cannot be underestimated. Labour must act decisively to neutralise this threat and take ownership of the issue.

 The Case for Proportional Property Tax

The solution is straightforward and long overdue. The Fairer Share campaign has long advocated replacing Council Tax and Stamp Duty with a Proportional Property Tax (PPT). Under this model, households would pay a fixed percentage of their property’s current market value. The tax would be fairer, more transparent, and less regressive.

The benefits are compelling. Fairer Share’s analysis shows that 77% of households would pay less under PPT, with the biggest gains seen in Red Wall constituencies. For working-class families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, this change would deliver immediate financial relief. It would also address long-standing regional inequalities by ensuring wealthier households contribute a fairer share.

By adopting PPT, Labour could achieve three critical goals:

1. Support struggling families by reducing their tax burden.
2. Combat inequality by targeting wealthier homeowners.
3. Modernise the tax system to reflect today’s housing market. 

Why Labour Must Lead

In towns like Hartlepool and across the North, voters feel abandoned by a system that stacks the odds against them. Council Tax reform is not just about numbers; it is about values. Will Labour stand for fairness and equality? Or will it shy away, leaving others to dominate the conversation?

Critics may argue that reforming Council Tax is politically risky, but the greater risk lies in doing nothing. If Labour hesitates, both the Conservatives and Reform UK could seize the initiative, framing themselves as champions of fairness while Labour appears complacent.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Council Tax Reform, which I proudly support, has worked to expose the system’s deep flaws and build cross-party momentum for change. This is no fringe issue. It resonates with voters across the political spectrum—from Red Wall families to young urban renters and suburban homeowners. Labour must harness this momentum.

 The Political and Moral Imperative

Reforming Council Tax is not just smart politics—it is a moral imperative. The current system penalises those who can least afford it while shielding the wealthiest. It entrenches inequality and deepens regional divides.

Labour was founded on principles of fairness, justice, and creating a better deal for ordinary people. Council Tax reform offers a chance to live up to those ideals. By showing courage and conviction, Labour can lead the way on one of the most pressing social justice issues of our time.

 Time Is Running Out

Labour must act. Every delay gives Farage and Reform UK more room to exploit grievances and divide voters. If Labour takes bold action, it can neutralise these threats while delivering tangible benefits to millions of working families.

The Red Wall was built on the hopes and aspirations of working-class voters. If Labour is to hold it, we must champion their dreams for a fairer and more equitable society. Reforming Council Tax is not just an opportunity to protect Labour seats; it is a chance to show the nation that they are serious about fixing the systems that hold people back. The time for bold action is now.

By Andrew Dixon OBE, Chairman of Fairer Share

by The Fairer Share Team

Struggling with Council Tax? Here’s What You Can Do

With council tax bills set to rise again in 2025, many households are feeling the strain. At a time when the cost of living is already high, an increase in council tax can push family budgets to the limit. But if you’re struggling to keep up with your payments, there are steps you can take to reduce your burden. Here’s what you need to know.

Check If You’re Eligible for a Discount or Exemption  

Many people don’t realise that they could be entitled to a discount on their council tax bill. Local councils offer reductions for a variety of reasons, including:

• Single person discount - If you live alone, you can get 25% off your bill.
• Student exemption - Full-time students are exempt from council tax entirely.
• Low-income households - Council Tax Reduction (CTR) schemes vary by local authority, but if you're on a low income or receiving benefits, you may qualify for a discount.
• Severe mental impairment (SMI) discount - If you or someone in your home has been medically diagnosed with an SMI (such as dementia), you may be eligible for a discount or exemption.
• Carers and disabled persons - Some councils offer discounts for those providing care or living with a disabled person in a property adapted for their needs.

How to Apply  

Check your local council’s website to find out what discounts and exemptions are available in your area. You’ll usually need to complete an application and provide supporting documents.

Appeal Your Council Tax Band

Did you know that many homes in England are still in the wrong council tax band? This dates back to the rushed property valuations in 1991, which have never been properly updated. If your home is in a higher band than it should be, you could be overpaying.

How to Challenge Your Band  

• Check your band - Visit the Valuation Office Agency at www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands website and compare your band with similar properties in your area.
• Gather evidence - If similar homes in your street are in a lower band, you may have a case for an appeal.
• Submit a challenge - You can formally challenge your band through the VOA, but be aware that your band could go up as well as down.

Set Up a Payment Plan or Apply for a Hardship Fund

If you're struggling to pay your bill, don't ignore it. Councils have the power to take enforcement action, including sending bailiffs. However, most councils will work with you if you contact them early.

Options Available  

• Spread your payments – Instead of paying over 10 months, you can request to spread payments over 12 months to reduce your monthly cost.
• Apply for a hardship fund – Some councils have discretionary hardship funds for people in severe financial difficulty.
• Negotiate a repayment plan – If you've fallen behind, speak to your council to agree on a manageable repayment plan.

Support our Campaign for a Fairer System  

Council tax is outdated, unfair, and based on property values from over 30 years ago. The highest earners often pay a smaller proportion of their property’s value than those on lower incomes. Fairer Share is campaigning for a Proportional Property Tax, which would replace council tax with a fairer system based on up-to-date property values.

What You Can Do

• Sign the petition – Show your support for council tax reform.
• Write to your MP – Let them know that the current system isn’t working and demand change.
• Spread the word - Share information about the Proportional Property Tax with friends and family.

Get involved with the Fairer Share campaign here.

by The Fairer Share Team