Part 6/8:
So, what can the new Labour government do to redress this escalating crisis? The most logical move would be to increase financial support for councils. In her budget, Rachel Reeves announced a provision of an additional £1.3 billion over the next year, including £600 million earmarked for social services. While this equates to a 3.2% increase in spending power for councils, opinions are split on whether this will suffice, given that reports indicate councils may face a looming £2.3 billion shortfall next year, ballooning to £3.9 billion by 2026-2027.