The Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council has welcomed the Government’s latest Budget, saying the measures announced yesterday could be a turning point in addressing longstanding challenges that local authorities face, particularly in areas such as social care, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), and affordable housing.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves acknowledged the pressing need to work alongside councils to “repair our public services” and pledged a “significant real-terms funding increase for local government next year.” The Budget outlines proposals designed to address the financial hurdles councils are encountering, including an additional £1.3 billion in grant funding for essential services. This funding encompasses £600 million allocated for social care, £230 million to combat homelessness and rough sleeping, and £500 million dedicated to road repairs and pothole improvements.
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, commented:
“We have been engaging with the Government to make the case for Southend and to emphasize the financial challenges that local governments face after years of reduced funding. This Budget demonstrates that our voices have been heard.
“While we must wait to see our exact funding allocation, this Budget shows the Government’s willingness to partner with us to tackle the challenges we face in delivering essential services for our residents. The Budget includes measures we have been advocating for, such as reforms to Right to Buy, increased funding for potholes, SEND, social care, childcare, affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and an extension to the Household Support Fund.
“Pressures in statutory services have left Southend facing a projected £5.6 million overspend this year, down from £8.1 million, with a need to address projected funding gaps totaling £70 million over the next four years. Southend-on-Sea has been deeply impacted by the growing demands of social services, particularly around temporary housing and school transport costs, which require national action.
“We are therefore encouraged by the Government’s response to key services like adult social care and children’s services. With over 1,400 households currently on our waiting lists, we also welcome the additional support to tackle homelessness and the sensible move to allow us to reinvest all proceeds from Right to Buy sales into council housing. The new investment in affordable housing will make a meaningful difference in our residents’ lives.
“This Budget paves the way for a fairer, more prosperous Southend. Investment in essential services, infrastructure, our NHS, and schools will foster resilience and expand opportunity for all as we work to build a city we can all take pride in.”