Staffordshire Moorlands councillors have pledged to freeze council tax at current rates next year, as people raise more concerns about the rising cost of household bills.

The news comes as councillors at the authority are scrambling to come up with ways to help residents as the cost of living increase begins to bite.

The measures were announced by the authority's Conservative group at a meeting last night (Wednesday 12th October) a little over six months ahead of council elections in May next year.

Cabinet member for communities, Cllr Ross Ward (Con) made the announcement as he explained how the council's own finances are under pressure.

He said: "There is only so much financial support that can be offered by SMDC

"But we also recognise the impact council tax bill has on individual household budgets – particularly in these difficult times.

"SMDC as an organisation are facing similar pressures.

"Our annual pay award is likely to add a further £200,000 per annum to our annual running costs.

"Although energy bills are capped for the next 6 months, there is still a longer term uncertainty around how much this will cost the council.

"Our own suppliers and services are rapidly increasing in cost – and we're also likely to face reduced revenue through council tax, business rates, fees and charges.

"In short, our finances are being restricted in income and pressured by our outgoings."

"Despite these enormous pressures on all our budgets, as a group we've agreed to commit to the ambition of delivering a 0% increase in council tax in May for people across the Staffordshire Moorlands."

He said the council was able to make the pledge due to historically well-managed finances – and outlined other things the authority will be doing to help people.

This includes providing funding for Citizens Advice, which supports people with general advice, money and debt advice, access to financial support and local groups, claiming housing benefits, legal support and homelessness prevention.

Last week the council also unveiled its plans to set up a warm bank for the Staffordshire Moorlands.

Cllr Ward said while he was committed to keeping council tax at current levels, this isn't certain due to the possibility of unforeseen pressures between now and next year when the new financial year begins.

He cautioned: "There are of course many unknowns and potential hurdles to clear in order to achieve this – but we are confident that as a team we can deliver this commitment to our residents.

"We are determined not to increase our council tax bill for the coming year."