Lothian council tax frozen for fifth consecutive year

COUNCIL tax in West Lothian will be frozen for the fifth consecutive year, the local authority has announced in its annual budget.

The council also plans to prioritise £12.9 million of investment in vulnerable groups including older people, families at risk and carers, as well as combating poverty and boosting job opportunities for young people.

As part of the investment, 2600 primary school pupils will be eligible for free breakfasts, while more children will receive school clothing allowances, the value of which will be doubled.

A campaign will be launched to ensure vulnerable people are receiving the benefits and tax credits due to them, and support will be given to allow dementia sufferers to remain living in their own homes, with care support and respite for carers. A number of other measures have also been announced.