Earlier this year, the council revealed the need to find savings of £32.6 million by 2026/27 due to ongoing budget pressures caused by increased levels of demand in areas out of the council’s control, including children’s and adult services and people in need of temporary accommodation.
The council also had to deal with rising costs combined with years of reduced levels of Government funding.
A new report has been published today detailing the progress made so far. It states that more than £10 million in savings has been found, with a further £20 million identified in savings targets over the medium term as part of Our Future Council, the authority's response to the financial challenges.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Stephen Simkins, said despite “significant progress,” more work was required and “difficult decisions needed to be made” to ensure a balanced budget for 2025/26 and beyond.
He said: “Very sadly, councils up and down the country are in the same position as us and are having to find savings while making sure we deliver essential services – especially to our most vulnerable residents – that matter the most to local people.
“Since 2010, our spending power has fallen by 17.4% in real terms, but demand for services such as adults and children’s social care has shot up.
“The fact is, there isn’t enough money to cover what we’ve delivered in the past, and achieving everything is no longer feasible or affordable.
“While we are going to have to re-prioritise, I can promise that our most vulnerable adults and children will be looked after, and we will continue to provide the services that matter the most to our residents.”
The report, which will go to a meeting of the council's Cabinet next Wednesday (13 November), includes a proposal to raise Council Tax by 5% next year, and also calls on the Government for fairer and multi year financial settlements.
Councillor Simkins added that, while last week’s Autumn Statement by the Government included some positive news for public services, it wouldn't have an impact on the savings the council needed to make this year, and is unlikely to reduce future savings targets.
He added: “We’ve been working on Our Future Council to help tackle the challenges we face while ensuring we still deliver good services and value for money in everything that we do – and we’ve made a strong start.
“However, we know there are very difficult decisions ahead and this work will impact on residents, services and staff.
“We’re leaving no stone unturned, looking for savings in all areas. We’re reducing our use of interim and agency staff and are committed to minimising compulsory redundancies as far as possible.
"And we’ll be launching a budget consultation later this month so we can hear from residents so we know what really matters to them and can plan accordingly.”
The report to Cabinet is available to view.
