PLANS to spare young people from paying council tax once they leave care will be a “positive step” say Monmouthshire councillors.

Monmouthshire County Council is poised to become the latest Welsh council to approve the exemption for care leavers aged 18 to 25.

The move will kick in this financial year, pending cabinet approval on July 4, and will cost the authority £6,500 per year.

Torfaen council were the first local authority to pass such a policy last year, although their policy applies until the age of 21.

“It’s much of a muchness,” said Ruth Donovan, Monmouthshire’s assistant head of finance, at a meeting of the children and young people select committee on Thursday.

“We know of nine other local authorities that have recently introduced this scheme. The likes of of Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly as are Newport.

“Some of them are going to the age of 21 while we’re proposing 25, but it’s essentially the same principles.”

The meeting also heard that Monmouthshire’s council tax exemption scheme would apply to people moving from other authorities.

Ms Donovan said: “We’re extending it all care leavers, and not everyone is doing that.”

The number of children and young people in care in Monmouthshire has significantly increased in the last five years, with 137 reported as of February this year – up from 102 in 2013.

A report presented to the committee showed that as of March 31, there were 68 care leavers aged between 18 and 25.

Labour councillor Tudor Thomas told members that he had witnessed a “huge learning curve” in the last year.

“Most children going into care are coming from quite challenging backgrounds and disruptive lives,” said Cllr Thomas.

“When they leave that protection at 18, in effect becoming adults. I think anything we can do to mitigate the difficulties they face, is very worthwhile.”

Labour councillor Martyn Groucutt, in agreement, added: “I think this is a positive step we can make as corporate parents and helping people into the world.”

Lib Dem councillor Jo Watkins said the policy would help Monmouthshire retain its young people, who are often priced out of the county.

“Let’s face it, Monmouthshire rents are really expensive and the living costs to stay in Monmouthshire are really difficult,” said Cllr Watkins.

“For our care leavers, it’s a very important step that we can take which might just help keep them within their local communities.”