Hammersmith & Fulham Council is honouring its armed forces veterans with a new 25% council tax discount, recognising the service and sacrifices of those who have defended the country.
The move, approved at a Cabinet meeting on Monday 19 February, coincides with the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, marking the defeat of the Nazis during World War II.
West Kensington resident Dai Pritchard, who served in the Army’s Welsh Guards for over a decade and fought in the Falklands War, welcomed the announcement. “It is wonderful to see H&F honour veterans and recognise the sacrifices of the armed forces on behalf of the country. I feel very lucky to be alive. I lost a lot of friends over the years in conflicts, and it feels fantastic that both we and they are being remembered and not forgotten,” he said.
Cllr Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, said the discount is a “small but fitting way to honour those who were prepared to pay the ultimate price in defending this country.” He emphasised that H&F remains committed to supporting its most vulnerable residents, continuing to offer full council tax support for low-income families, foster carers, and care leavers, as it has since the abolition of national council tax benefit in 2013.
The council’s support extends beyond tax relief, with more than £12 million allocated to wider financial assistance during the cost-of-living crisis. This includes free home care for older and disabled adults, financial support vouchers for over 830 local pensioners, and collaboration with more than 100 voluntary and community organisations to help residents with urgent needs such as energy and water bills.
H&F has also operated an ethical debt policy since 2018, focusing on early engagement, flexible repayment plans, and hardship schemes to reduce long-term financial stress.
Despite facing a £36 million reduction in government grants between 2010-11 and 2025-26, H&F has maintained its 100% council tax support for working-age households on the lowest incomes.
The council’s Benefits team was recognised nationally in 2025 by the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation as the ‘Most Improved Team’, reflecting the borough’s focus on delivering support and positive outcomes for residents in need.
The new Armed Forces council tax discount is now in place, providing veterans with tangible recognition of their service while reinforcing H&F’s commitment to honouring and supporting those who have served the country.
