I have finally, after 9 months from first applying, received confirmation today that my I am exempt from council tax on the grounds of severe mental impairment. The phrasing seems pretty awful to me, but it has nothing to do with intellect or not having complete control of your mental faculties.

For my local council I had to submit a form signed by my doctor confirming that I had suffered a brain injury that has resulted in permanent disability, in my case epilepsy. I also had to submit proof of PIP award for the daily living component, either standard or enhanced. There are several other categories of benefits that entitle you to this, I believe carers allowance was one, I can't remember the others!

Obviously it's a massive saving if you're not having to pay £100 a month council tax, but I don't think it's made common knowledge to those on benefits. I am lucky to have a very good gp and social worker who both informed me that I qualified for this exemption, certainly wasn't mentioned by anyone at the jobcentre!

As a side note, I got a 100% exemption as I am a sole resident. The exemption only applies to the disabled person so if you're in a couple then the rules would apply as if you were not living there, I.e, a 25% discount for your partner.

Hope this can help some others as it's a huge weight off my mind!