Falkirk residents struggling with council tax repayments have been urged to seek assistance after new figures revealed nearly half a million people in Scotland receive discounts.

According to new stats released by the Scottish Government, 462,310 households across the country received a reduction in July, amounting to £8.9 million in weekly support.

The Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme offers support to people on low incomes, potentially saving them hundreds of pounds per year, in certain cases it can reduce bills by as much as 100 per cent. The number of recipients who accessed CTR increased slightly from June’s figure of 460,080.

Council tax arrears are a ‘priority debt’, meaning they should be addressed before other debts to avoid harsher measures, such as wages or even bank accounts being seized.

Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the free-to-access Money Advice service, is urging people to check their eligibility and ensure they do not miss out on available support.

Craig Tobin, head of business development and impact at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “It’s harrowing to hear from people distressed over council tax debt. This year’s council tax increases have placed further pressure on individuals and families already struggling with rising energy bills and the cost-of-living crisis.

“Demands for payment and threats of enforcement over council tax debt can make money worries even more stressful. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you’re receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to.”

To access support or find out if you're eligible, visit the Money Advice website or call 0808 196 2316 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.