We estimate that local government faces an overall funding gap of £5.8 billion by 2019/20, taking into account future funding and the full range of pressures facing councils.
Social care is an absolutely vital public service. It provides the necessary care and support to ensure some of the most vulnerable people retain a sense of independence and continue to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Unless the Local Government Finance Settlement provides a solution, we could be in the midst of the worst funding crisis social care has ever faced. Extra council tax-raising powers are not the answer as they will not bring in enough money to alleviate the pressure on social care. The only solution is genuinely new money. We really hope the Government listens to our concerns and takes action.