A fresh budget update shows an improving financial picture for Leicestershire County Council, with a small underspend forecast by the end of the year.
Published today (Wednesday), the report says reduced spending on costly social care placements is helping to generate a predicted £4.7m underspend, reducing the need to draw on reserves.
A further £10m of debt has also been repaid, bringing the total to £36.9m since April.
“This is about putting Leicestershire on a stronger footing for the future.
“Our focus is on making sure people get the right support at the right time, while also protecting the council’s long-term financial position. These figures show that approach is starting to make a difference but we know the pressures facing councils remain significant.
“Clearly, there’s more work to do. But by spending smarter, we’re reducing demand for more costly support, improving people’s lives and building a better Leicestershire.”
Person:Council leader Dan Harrison
The Better Leicestershire Programme, which aims to bring down costs and reduce future budget gaps, is also progressing, with recruitment to expand home care teams due to launch soon.
“This is an encouraging update and shows we’re on track.
“With a local government shake up imminent, it’s important that we put the council in the best possible position for the future and that’s exactly what we’re doing.
“A new prime minister brings more uncertainty but through major efficiency programmes, paying off debt early and prioritising the services we know are important to residents, we’re making every pound work harder.”
Person:Councillor Harrison Fowler, cabinet member for resources and finance
The council’s scrutiny commission and cabinet will consider the budget update in September – tune in online.