Rutland County Council has published its latest financial report, highlighting significant budget pressures, particularly in the area of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Rutland County Council has published its latest financial report, highlighting significant budget pressures, particularly in the area of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The report reveals a projected net overspend of £2.3 million, primarily due to insufficient government funding for SEND provision. Despite efforts to make savings and generate additional income, the Council is struggling to balance its budget.
One of the main challenges is the rising cost of complex care for adults, which has exceeded expectations by £176,000. However, the Council has managed to offset some of these costs through savings in other areas, such as a new waste transfer station contract.
The recent Autumn Budget Statement from the Chancellor offered some relief with additional funding for SEND services, but this increase is insufficient to address the growing demand. The Council's leadership acknowledges the complexity of the situation and is taking steps to stabilise and reduce costs, including participation in national initiatives like the East Midlands Change Programme Partnership and the Delivering Better Value Programme.
While the Council is working diligently to manage its finances, it remains dependent on government support to address the ongoing challenges in funding key services like SEND.
Read the report here: REPORT
