Commenting on suggested changes to the use of council tax precept funding, John Pearce, Immediate Past President of ADCS, said:

“Some greater flexibility around use of the precept funds that recognises the financial pressure in children’s services would be welcome.  However, this is a sticking plaster and not a long-term solution to the financial challenges now facing children’s services or local government.  It must also be recognised that areas with the highest level of needs are often those least able to raise funding through a precept on council tax.  We need a new settlement that reflects the actual level of need in our communities and supports us to work with children and families at the earliest possible opportunity.”

ENDS