FOLLOWING agreement at this week's cabinet meeting, in April 2021, Thurrock foster carers living in the borough will be exempt from paying council tax.

Cllr James Halden, cabinet member for social care, says: "We're absolutely delighted that we are able to provide this massive support for our foster caring households, and we wish that everyone takes a look at how they can make a difference to a child or young person's life.

"This is a historic boost for our foster caring families, a tax cut worth £1,600 to the average band D property.

"This is how we are showing how much we value Thurrock people who choose the foster for Thurrock Council. It is the single biggest investment we have ever made in foster care and something that very few councils are able to do.

"There has never been a better time to foster for Thurrock Council, to give back to our community and support these special children."

People will become eligible for total exemption from Thurrock Council Tax if they:

live in Thurrock

are available to foster in line with council policies

To find out more about fostering visit thurrock.gov.uk/fostering.