Redbridge Council announces initial budget savings proposals amidst government cuts and rising demand for services
Published: 20 December 2023
As part of the 2023/24 budget setting process Redbridge Council has outlined initial savings proposals, totalling £12m, to be considered by the Council’s Cabinet on Thursday 21st December.
As a result of Government austerity measures, Redbridge Council’s grant settlement funding has been cut by over half since 2010, meaning that, after adjusting for inflation, the Council has over £152m less to spend each year. This leaves the Council having to make tough choices to protect the vital services local people rely on while balancing its budget.
The recent Government Autumn Statement included no additional funding for cash-strapped councils struggling with rising demands and reduced budgets. Instead, councils across the country are facing financial difficulty, supporting local people through the cost of living crisis while receiving no additional help from Government.
Despite the challenges of rising inflation, increasing demand, and reduced government funding, Redbridge Council is innovating to continue to deliver more services with less. By bringing education and youth services together and working in partnership with the Police and local charities, this year, the Council has opened a new Youth Hub in Loxford and a Community Grocery Store in Ilford – delivering two new services despite reduced government funding.
Through the cost of living crisis, Redbridge Council has stepped up support for local families struggling with rising bills, developing a new cost of living website and administering the Household Support Fund. Unfortunately, government funding for the Household Support Fund is due to end in March 2024, increasing pressure on local residents as this vital support is being taken away.
The level of government cuts to funding and increasing demand is unsustainable and, across the country, is pushing many councils to the brink. Redbridge Council is doing everything possible to protect the vital services local people rely on, investing in infrastructure and services to save money in the longer term and finding innovative ways to generate income.
As part of the 2023/24 budget setting process the Council will soon launch a consultation to hear from local people.
