|
Your councillors have just approved the budget for the coming year. This decision ensures we can continue to fund excellent services, support those most in need and protect the most vulnerable in our society.
The reality is the funding we get from Government is about half what it was ten years ago. We are faced with the stark choice between stripping back services when they are needed most or putting up Council Tax.
This decision isn’t an easy one, but alongside the vast majority of councils across the country we have raised Council Tax by 1.99 per cent, with an extra 1 per cent being added to pay to fund Adult Social Care that can only be used to support people with complex health or care needs.
We know people are facing challenges, which is why we have earmarked a new £2m Families in Housing Need fund to support those most struggling to keep a roof over their head. Now we have the budget agreed we can look at how this money can be best used in Waltham Forest. This is in addition to our work with Citizens Advice to offer up to £750 in grants to those struggling with everyday bills and other items.
The budget will also provide an extra £5.1m for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. We are determined to give young people in Waltham Forest the best start in life. We know how important our social care services are. This year Adults and Children's Social Care will receive an extra £2.913m to be split between them, with Adult Social Care also receiving an additional £1.5m raised through the ring-fenced social care precept.
Parks and open spaces have been so important for residents, especially through the pandemic. We are improving playground, growing sites, and green places across the borough with over £400,000 of investment that will benefit us all as well as our precious environment.
We are committed to the people of Waltham Forest and their future.
Thank you
Grace
|
