District Councillors have agreed a new scheme for helping low income households to pay their council tax – but Government funding changes mean that now around 2000 households will have to contribute towards their bill.

As part of the Government's welfare reforms, council tax benefit will be abolished from April 2013. Instead residents will be able to claim help with their council tax under a new locally agreed scheme.

However councils will receive around 10% less funding for the new scheme, meaning that Maldon District Council has had to reduce its benefit budget by approximately £518,000.

Farleigh Hospice is currently offering members of the local community the exciting opportunity to really get involved and make a difference. Its governing body, the board of trustees, needs to recruit some brand new members to replace those who have recently retired. The closing date for applications is 8th February 2013 and successful candidates will be selected through a competitive interview process led by a small panel.

Farleigh Hospice's Chief Executive, Janet Doghan, explains;

"Farleigh Hospice is a registered charity providing free care and support to people affected by life limiting illnesses in the mid Essex area. The board of trustees is responsible for the effective governance of the charity through working closely with both myself, and the senior management team. Trustees give their time voluntarily.

The Leader of Maldon District Council, Cllr Bob Boyce, is delighted to hear that Cllr Brian Beale Member for Southminster and Leader of the Opposition at Maldon District Council has been awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours list.

Cllr Boyce said; "This award for Cllr Beale's services to Local Government in Essex is richly deserved, he has always worked tirelessly for the District at both Parish and District Council level and provided unrivalled support for his community.

He has been a District Councillor since 1987 and in July of this year, he was presented with a gift by the Council in recognition of his 25 years of service as a District Councillor.

Maldon District Council have announced this year's Christmas and New Year arrangements for Council office opening times and refuse and recycling amended collection dates.

Maldon District Council offices will be open as normal over the Christmas period as follows: