News

Years of significant underfunding of councils, coupled with rising demand and costs for care and support, have combined to push adult social care services to breaking point.

"We need to see further urgent investment in adult social care and a boost to the social care workforce to ensure the best possible care for those that need it.”

“The easy savings have long since gone. Councils are being faced with tough decisions about cutting valued services, increasing council tax and fees and charges during a cost-of-living crisis.  "

“It is crucial that the impacts of any social care reforms on councils are thoroughly assessed and are manageable, costed and centred on people who draw on care.”

Councils are extremely concerned about the current pressures facing social care and the capacity and financial resources required to deliver the Government’s reform agenda.

"Councils will continue to step up to support residents, especially those who are more vulnerable, businesses and education settings."

Although it is encouraging that rates of drug misuse have remained stable, this is masking worrying new trends in drug use

"While it is good to see an increase in people taking their sexual health seriously, a rising demand is pushing some councils' sexual health services to peak capacity levels which are not sustainable in the long term."

Councils urge parents to take up MMR vaccine in light of outbreaks

“As the cost of living has increased, we are concerned there will be more people this winter who may not be able to switch their heating on, putting them at greater risk from illness relating to the cold."