On 6 March the Council agreed its budget for 2024 to 25, focused on supporting children and young people, tackling the climate crisis and protecting services.  

Through Our Greenwich, the Council's vision for the future, we made it our mission to ensure residents are living happier, independent, and more fulfilling lives. But after over a decade of government cuts, we have had to look at every penny spent to make sure it's having the best impact for you.  

We have reviewed all our services to deliver greater value for money without compromising our vision or values, but unfortunately, we have been left with little choice but to increase council tax by 4.99 per cent in order to provide essential services. Council tax also funds the police and transport across London. 

This table shows how the increase affects you:

*Check your Council Tax band on GOV.UK

It's not easy to ask you to pay more at a time when many people are worried about their finances. We have one of the most generous Council Tax Support schemes in London to help those on low-incomes. We go a step further for residents who foster children with the Council by exempting them completely.  

The current financial system is broken and we and other councils are urging the government to provide longer term settlements so we can plan properly for the future.  

If you are worried about the increase, or want advice about the cost of living, visit our Greenwich Supports page, or call 020 8921 6375 on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 10am to 1pm. 

Yours sincerely,

Cllr Anthony Okereke Leader,

Royal Borough of Greenwich