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26 Nov 98

Social Services: Budget and Strategy

Poole Council is continuing to make preparations for funding personal Social Services in the expectation of a tough settlement from Central Government. The Government has already announced that it is expecting a 2% efficiency saving across the entire Social Services budget. Poole is also anticipating that any "growth" in the national budget will be strictly targeted to specific aspects of the service such as mental health and protecting children.

The Social Services Committee is being recommended to prepare for the necessary efficiency measures as well as to request the Policy and Resources Committee to help fund developments in Early Years, Youth Offender Teams and tackling Domestic Violence. The Committee will receive this advice in the knowledge of an excellent report on its managerial structure from the Social Services Inspectorate, and after good public feedback on its services from the MORI survey.

Councillor Jane James, Chairman of the Social Services Committee said
"If Central Government continues to underfund the provision of services in Poole, it is inevitable that some changes are going to be needed. We are fighting hard to get fair funding, and had some minor success last year. We will continue to lobby Westminster for what we believe the people of Poole deserve".

Vice Chairman, Councillor Charles Meachin commented that
"We are anticipating a tough settlement. However, it is important that we continue to improve services for Poole People, and respond to changing demand. That is why we will be seeking the Policy Committee's help in funding support for Early Years, Youth Offender Teams and Domestic Violence."

Fred Davies (01202) 633203