Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch has welcomed the news that the Scottish Government has made positive changes to the water exemption scheme.

The scheme, designed to determine which charities are exempt from water bills, will now apply to a far greater number of charities. All those registered with the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) and Community Amateur Sports Clubs, which meet the scheme’s requirements and have an income of less than £200,000 will no longer need to pay water and sewerage charges. In addition, those with incomes between £200,000 and £300,000 will pay a reduced rate.

Mr Thompson said, “I welcome the fact that those registered with Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) and Community Amateur Sports Clubs who meet the Water Exemption Scheme Changes criteria will no longer need to pay water and sewerage charges.

“This will mean those clubs that have an income of less than £200,000 will have money to buy items that are essential to running their clubs and those with incomes between £200,000 and £300,000 in paying a reduced rate will also have funds to spare on club-related projects”.

Notes:

The new scheme commenced on the 1st April 2015.

Applications need to be completed online and to facilitate this process we at Business Stream have created a new easy-to-use exemptions application form for our customers on our website. We have also developed simple and easy-to-navigate guidance notes that clearly outline the criteria for exemption. The forms can be accessed at http://www.business-stream.co.uk/water-rates-charges/water-charge-exemption-scheme