We are delighted to announce the new contract between North Somerset Council (NSC) and Liberata for the delivery of Revenues and Benefits, and Exchequer services. This contract will be up to ten years (seven years initially, with a possible three-year extension), worth approximately £50m.
A significant partnership
The new contract, set to commence in October 2025, marks a significant milestone in our partnership, which began in May 1995 with the Revenues and Benefits Service and will now span an impressive 30 years.
The contract covers services including Council Tax, business rates, housing benefits, customer services, accounts payable and accounts receivable. It is responsible for collecting vital revenue needed to run critical council services while offering valuable support to vulnerable residents.
First Steps programme
NSC supports its vulnerable residents by utilising the First Steps programme, a Liberata initiative delivered in partnership with the Citizens Advice Bureau. Since its launch in 2015, the programme has supported over 5,500 residents who have experienced difficulties paying their Council Tax.
High-standard collection rates
The partnership’s services combine the First Steps, outstanding employees, and best-in-class technology. Liberata maintains its responsible collections contractor requirements and ensures NSC achieves upper-quartile collection rates for Council Tax and National Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR).
“More than just a contract”
Charlie Bruin, Liberata CEO, stated, “The relationship between Liberata and NSC has always been more than just a contract. NCS values our accessibility and the expert services we provide to customers. This new contract win is a testament to our long-standing partnership and a vote of confidence from our longest Local Government client, which underpins many ongoing initiatives across the Liberata business.
Liberata works closely with executive officers and locally elected representatives to ensure outstanding services are delivered competitively. This strategic partnership has a long and proud tradition of delivering strong service outcomes. This contract embodies Liberata’s Service Tech ethos, combining great people with expertly configured technology and applications.”
Jo Walker, North Somerset Council’s Chief Executive, added, “North Somerset Council’s partnership with Liberata continues to drive service innovation and deliver value. We trust Liberata to run our Revenues and Benefits, Customer Services, and Exchequer services professionally and competently. We know they will bring in new practices and technologies to ensure they are improving wherever possible, using their expertise, technology IP, and pool of resources to support our residents.”
