As a working person living in Falkirk, like many others, my family and I are feeling the strain of ever-increasing living costs. Fuel, food, gas, electricity, and our mortgage are all dealing serious blows to our budget every month. Now, we are faced with the recent increases in council tax, the highest in all of Scotland. This not only pushes individuals and families further into the realm of poverty with less disposable income, but it also impacts our local businesses that rely on our spending. This rapid rise in living expenses is forcing us, the honest working citizens, into the troubling pitfalls of food and fuel poverty.

Based on reports, the average council tax per dwelling in Scotland rose by 4.1% between 2019-20 and 2020-21 (source: Scottish Government statistics). In Falkirk specifically, the increase was significantly higher. These numbers do not just reflect a irksome trend. They signify a deepening crisis that calls for swift and decisive action.

We believe that the tax increase should be reduced to stop the spiraling trend of impoverishing working people and affecting local businesses. We call on the relevant authority to take into account the present economic situation and the consequences the increased taxes have on us, the hard-working citizens, and our community.

It is time for Falkirk council to reconsider its decision. After all, a council exists to serve its citizens, not to burden them.

We urge everyone who shares our concern to sign this petition and push for a reconsideration of the council tax increase. Protect the working individuals and families of Falkirk from further financial strain, and support our local economy. Sign now to make a difference.