Conservative-run Somerset County Council have proposed a new balanced budget that proposes a major investment in Adult Social Care and Children’s Services as well as a boost for climate change action. This is the final budget for Somerset County Council ahead of the creation of a new unitary Somerset Council in April 2023.
The budget lays out plans for major investment in care services, with an increase of £18m for Adult Social Care and over £12m for Children’s Services. Part of the increase in funding for Adult Social Care reflects the Conservative-run Council’s recent decision to support an increase in carers pay and to provide a retention bonus for care staff throughout Somerset. This is intended to support the recruitment and retention of staff in a challenging job market for care services.
The new budget showcases substantial investment in measures to tackle climate change, building on the successful Climate Emergency Community Fund. Another boost for climate change action included in the new budget is the £1 million allocated in new match funding to support the “decarbonisation” of our schools – on top of the existing £7.8 million investment in decarbonising council buildings, including libraries. A further £1 million has been allocated for electric fleet vehicles and charging infrastructure. A new investment of £1 million has been allocated to local transport schemes.
Councillor Mandy Chilcott, Cabinet Member for Resources said: “As the report makes clear, at a time of unprecedented pressures on council services, the hard work of officers and members of the council has created a sound financial plan, replenished reserves and outlined substantial capital investment in our county’s future.
“We have enabled an environment that allows for increased investment in supporting our most vulnerable residents and preparing this county for the challenges of climate change; all while setting one of the lowest County Council Tax rates in the country.
“This Council starts its journey towards the new unitary Somerset Council in excellent financial health and with robust reserves.”
