We all lead busy lives nowadays, whether we’re at work, at home, doing the weekly shopping or spending time with the family.

With the frantic pace we lead our lives it’s no wonder things can often slip our minds, that’s why Rochford District Council has introduced a new system that means you can now make payments at any time, day or night, all-year round.

The Council’s, Revenues and Benefits Service has introduced a new easy-to-use speech recognition payment system. Customers can now pay their Council Tax or car parking Penalty Charge Notices 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

As well as being a 24/7/365 service, it’s also hoped that by introducing the innovative new system there will be a reduction in telephone holding times at peak periods when making payments.

Once connected you’re greeted by a message asking which service you want to pay for. After telling the system which service you want, you’re taken through the process of making a payment in the same way as with a contact centre customer service advisor.

Rochford District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Council Tax Collection, Benefits and Strategic Housing Functions, Councillor Tracy Capon said:

“Removing high volumes of calls from our contact centre will improve the service we provide for those customers who need to talk to an advisor about their Council Tax or Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.

The system is very easy to use. Anyone can make a payment for council tax or car parking Penalty Charge Notices by phoning 0207 138 1976.”