The original scheme was established in 2004, in recognition that some council tenants with gardens were unable to cut their grass.

The new changes, agreed by Moray Council’s Housing and Community Safety Committee, are designed to modernise the initiative so it’s available to those who need it while also making sure it’s financially viable.

One key adjustment is to the eligibility criteria, which will now focus more on a tenants’ capability rather than their age, making sure support is based on individual needs.

To qualify for the scheme, tenants must have a recognised long-term illness or disability as defined by the Equality Act 2010.

Other changes include:

• The introduction of a cap on the number of tenants on the scheme, in line with resources available, with the introduction of a waiting list if oversubscribed;
• Replacing the caveat of “not having any other able-bodied person in household who is able to help” with “not having any other tenant”;
• A charge of £248.80 annually, with a subsidised rate of £120 annually available by means testing for those on lower incomes;
• A payment plan will also be available to help spread the cost.

Chair of Moray Council’s Housing and Community Safety Committee, Cllr Amber Dunbar, said: “These changes, particularly those to eligibility criteria, will help make sure the scheme is both accessible and sustainable, while also addressing our ongoing challenges around budget pressures.

“I’d like to thank the tenants who participated in the initial review of the scheme. Their views were essential in ensuring it remains fit-for-purpose.”