News http://www.wlga.gov.uk/news http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification mojoPortal Blog Module en-GB 120 no WLGA warns of impact on communities due to lack of investment in Spring Budget The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has today called on the UK Government to reconsider its budget allocations to address the pressing needs of communities across Wales, expressing alarm over the lack of funding for public spending or investment. 

Echoing similar calls by the Welsh Government, the WLGA maintains that the Chancellor's primary focus should be on prioritising investments in essential public services that are relied upon by all of us. 

 

Cllr Anthony Hunt, WLGA Finance Spokesperson said: 

“We are deeply concerned about the implications of the Spring Budget for communities across Wales. 

“The Chancellor talks about wasteful spending, but the reality is councils are on their knees thanks to his Government, with discretionary spending cut by up to 40% after adjusting for inflation. The local public services councils provide are experiencing unprecedented financial pressures and councils are considering all potential avenues to balance budgets. While they may manage in the short term, there is serious concern regarding the survival of vital local services. Local authorities are expected to deliver more with less funding, so the strain on councils cannot be overstated. 

“Lack of investment in local government will only produce poorer outcomes for communities and will impact on councils’ ability to fund schools and social care, build social housing and invest in the transition to net zero. 

“Thanks to this Budget, Welsh communities will be experiencing rises in Council Tax but can expect to see less for their money. This could have a devastating effect on individuals, families, and communities throughout Wales as this adds to pressures already felt due to the cost-of-living crisis and high inflation rates. The services that are the basis of the fabric of society are straining. 

“The NHS and social care need to be funded on an equal basis as they are both part of the same system and have similar pressures. Despite additional funds announced for NHS, social care remains severely underfunded and overlooked, exacerbating existing pressures on local authorities as well as increasing the burden on the health service.” 

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-warns-of-impact-on-communities-due-to-lack-of-investment-in-spring-budget- http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-warns-of-impact-on-communities-due-to-lack-of-investment-in-spring-budget- http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-warns-of-impact-on-communities-due-to-lack-of-investment-in-spring-budget- Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:41:00 GMT
£25 million welcomed by local government, but sustainable long-term funding needed The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has welcomed today’s announcement by the Welsh Government of an additional £25m for local authorities in 2024-25. However. the WLGA warns that it is still nowhere near enough to cover the £432m funding gap faced by local government.

Last month, the UK Government announced it would be increasing its local government settlement by £600m in England, largely to respond to pressures in social care, resulting in a funding consequential allocation of around £25m for Wales.

This is designated to support the social care workforce, schools, and assist councils in addressing pressures within their local communities.

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, WLGA Leader said:

“We welcome today’s announcement of an extra £25m to local authorities by the Welsh Government. We’re grateful to the Minister for listening to the case made by the WLGA and local authorities to support essential hard-pressed local services including supporting our most vulnerable residents through providing social care services.

“But the scale of the pressures means that local government is still facing a £432m gap in funding, which means extremely difficult decisions will still need to be taken including raising Council Tax rates and around service provision.

 

Councillor Anthony Hunt, WLGA Spokesperson for Finance said:

“I’m pleased to hear the Welsh Government announcement today of additional funding for councils to support vital services such as social care, workforce and schools. The WLGA will continue its dialogue with the Welsh Government, and we will look to the UK Government’s Spring Budget for sustainable support to further help to ease the financial pressures faced by essential local services.”

 

Councillor Llinos Medi, WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader said:

“I’m grateful to the Minister for her constructive engagement with local government. Whilst any funding is welcomed, it is clear that this allocation won’t touch the sides of the gaping black holes in our local services’ budgets. Councils are required by law to agree balanced budgets. Set against the backdrop of rocketing inflation, soaring costs and spiralling demand on services, this is fast becoming an impossible task.

“It is disappointing to see that no funding will be provided to cover the teachers’ pay award. This means that local government will be expected to cover the cost of Welsh Government policy from councils’ own dwindling resources.”

 

Councillor Mark Pritchard, WLGA Independent Group Leader said:

“Since the onset of austerity, councils have lost over £1bn from their budgets. That is £1bn lost from essential everyday services such as social care, schools, economic development, and environmental services to name but a few. The funding announced today will do very little to meet the mammoth funding gaps in our budgets.

“It is clear that a long-term, sustainable funding commitment is urgently needed from both Welsh and UK Governments to seek to protect vital council-run services which support and enhance so many people’s lives in our communities.”

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/25-million-welcomed-by-local-government-but-sustainable-long-term-funding-needed http://www.wlga.gov.uk/25-million-welcomed-by-local-government-but-sustainable-long-term-funding-needed http://www.wlga.gov.uk/25-million-welcomed-by-local-government-but-sustainable-long-term-funding-needed Wed, 07 Feb 2024 21:18:00 GMT
“Vital” that consequential funding is delivered to Welsh councils in full Responding to the announcement by the UK Government of additional funding for councils in England, Councillor Anthony Hunt (Torfaen), WLGA Finance Spokesperson said:

 

“This announcement today of an additional £600m funding for English councils is proof that the local government finance crisis cannot be ignored any longer. We welcome the fact that most of this funding will be targeted at delivering essential social care services to the most vulnerable.”

 

“It is vital now that the consequential funding allocation arising as a result of today’s announcement is passported in full to Welsh councils to help our hard-hit social care services and to fund our schools.”

 

ENDS -

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/“vital”-that-consequential-funding-is-delivered-to-welsh-councils-in-full http://www.wlga.gov.uk/“vital”-that-consequential-funding-is-delivered-to-welsh-councils-in-full http://www.wlga.gov.uk/“vital”-that-consequential-funding-is-delivered-to-welsh-councils-in-full Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:12:00 GMT
WLGA responds to the local government settlement Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, WLGA Leader said:

“We knew this was going to be a challenging settlement, and we recognise the Welsh Government’s efforts in seeking to provide a degree of protection for frontline public services. But the outlook remains bleak for local services that are still being seriously affected by ever-rising costs. Even though inflation is slowing, it still means we all get less for our money now than we used to, and this is the same for councils too. The UK Government had a chance to address this funding gap in the last Autumn Statement but did not take it. No extra money for schools or social care meant that no consequential funding flowed to Wales. Difficult decisions will have to be taken to ensure councils can meet their legal duty to balance the books and set a balanced budget.

“We have welcomed a close and constructive relationship with the Minister and her colleagues. We will look forward to work closely with her and Welsh Government to navigate extremely turbulent times for our essential local services and to manage potential implications for our communities.”

 

Councillor Llinos Medi, WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader:

“Rocketing demand in adult social care, children’s services, and housing, clearly shows that local services are needed more than ever amidst a Cost-of-Living crisis which is negatively affecting communities. However, whilst we appreciate the difficult circumstances for the Welsh Government, this settlement will do little to ease the pressure on services. I’m disappointed to see that no extra money has been allocated to cover the increase in teachers’ pay, which means that councils will be expected to meet the cost of a Welsh Government spending commitment.”

“Since the onset of austerity, over £1bn has been lost from Welsh local government budgets. Councils have worked hard to find efficiencies and reduce costs, but the easy savings have long gone. Local government cannot continue to be expected to make significant budget cuts without seriously impacting the viability of our services.”

 

Councillor Mark Pritchard, WLGA Independent Group Leader said:

“For a long time, councils have warned of the enormous pressures that they face after so many years of reduced funding. Unfortunately, today’s settlement does not provide enough funding to meet the severe cost and demand pressures which present serious challenges next year for setting balanced budgets, as is required by law. Whilst on the surface there appears to be a 3.1% boost in core funding, significant cuts to grants - with no extra money to cover the teachers’ pay increase - means that councils will receive far less than the suggested increase.

“Dipping into ‘rainy day’ council reserves is not a solution to plug ever growing gaps which will reappear year after year. The only answer to meeting soaring costs and rocketing demand on services is to fully recognise and meet the funding pressures for local government.”

 

Councillor James Gibson-Watt, WLGA Deputy Presiding Officer (Liberal Democrat) said:

“Residents, businesses, and communities in all parts of Wales depend on lifeline services delivered by our councils. From social care to economic development, housing to schools, these are cornerstone services which play a key role in all our daily lives. But the impact of over 10% cost inflation, the consequent need to increase staff pay to meet the cost-of-living crisis and a huge increase in demand for social care, have combined to create a perfect storm for council finances.

“In recent times, councils have played an integral role in delivering the ambitions of the UK and Welsh governments. This will become ever harder to achieve if more funding is not forthcoming.”

 

Councillor Anthony Hunt, WLGA Finance Spokesperson said:

While core funding has been maintained, other grant funding has fallen in cash terms.  Over the consultation period, we will work with the Welsh Government on this issue and other issues related to teachers’ pay and pensions, and charges for social care.

“Councils will be facing an estimated funding shortfall of £432m even after council tax rises and we will collectively face some very difficult decisions. As well as an ongoing dialogue with Welsh Government we will have to engage our communities on the difficult choices that lie ahead.”

 

ENDS - 

 

NOTES FOR EDITORS

 

  1. The draft settlement for local government was published today by the Welsh Government. A press release by the Minister can be read here.
  2. Attached is a report further outlining the pressures faced by local government, and the scale of the financial position.
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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-responds-to-the-local-government-settlement http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-responds-to-the-local-government-settlement http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-responds-to-the-local-government-settlement Wed, 20 Dec 2023 14:32:00 GMT
WLGA's response to today’s Welsh Government finance announcement These are not easy decisions, and we would support the Minister in protecting local government core funding in 2023-24. We also support the basic principles that the Welsh Government has applied in protecting front-line services, jobs and the most vulnerable. As the WLGA we wrote to the Treasury back in the summer making the case for additional funding in Wales and for more flexibilities in the way Wales is funded.

We remain concerned about the programmes which will not proceed and the impact on budgets next year.  Local government budgets are facing a pressure next year of £720m which is about 10% of our net expenditure. The funding available will not cover it all and we face a considerable funding gap. We will be working closely with the Welsh Government to achieve the best possible outcome for local services.

 

Ends 

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlgas-response-to-today’s-welsh-government-finance-announcement http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlgas-response-to-today’s-welsh-government-finance-announcement http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlgas-response-to-today’s-welsh-government-finance-announcement Tue, 17 Oct 2023 21:18:00 GMT
HMRC urges contractors not to get caught out by tax avoidance HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging contractors in a wide range of roles across Local Government not to get caught out by unscrupulous promoters of tax avoidance schemes.

Tax avoidance is when people bend the rules of the tax system to try to pay less tax than they should. But those who join avoidance schemes can end up having to pay the tax due in the first place – as well as interest and potentially penalties. That is on top of the fees they have already paid for joining the scheme.

HMRC wants to stop people being drawn into such schemes as well as help them leave tax avoidance schemes if they believe they might be caught up in one. HMRC is working with a range of organisations to give them the tools to educate the contractors who work for them on the risks of using tax avoidance schemes.

Everyone is responsible under UK law for paying the correct amount of tax. This still applies where the contractor has appointed someone else to deal with their tax affairs or has been given bad advice – the ultimate responsibility and risk remains with the individual. 

WLGA members involved with the recruitment of agency and temporary workers can help these workers understand the risks and consequences of using tax avoidance schemes. The information in this article will help workers spot the warning signs.

Here are some things for workers to watch out for:

  • Any scheme that allows you to keep more of your income than you would expect, with little or no deductions for Income Tax and National Insurance contributions (NICs)
  • Some, or all of the payments you get are said to be “non-taxable”. These could be described as loans, annuities, bonuses, or shares. These payments are no different to normal income and you still need to pay Income Tax and NICs on them
  • Schemes you are told are safe and compliant or approved by HMRC. This is not true - HMRC never approves avoidance schemes
  • Only a part of the total payments you receive may be taxed as income. If you are employed, this is usually a national minimum wage amount
  • Being offered a choice between a standard or “enhanced” pay scheme. The enhanced version is likely to be tax avoidance
  • Being asked to sign more than one contract or agreement
  • An employment contract or agreement that does not state how your income will be paid, or provide you with a breakdown of all your deductions
  • Being offered a ‘cash bonus’ if you recommend the scheme to a friend.

HMRC is urging contractors, agency workers or those who work through an umbrella company to check how they are paid to make sure they’re not caught out. They can use the interactive risk checker to see whether their current contract could involve tax avoidance.

 

Mary Aiston, Director of Counter Avoidance, HMRC, said: “You don’t need to be a tax expert to spot an avoidance scheme. If you’re offered higher take home pay simply for rearranging how it reaches you, for example as a non-repayable loan or as a trust payment, it almost certainly is tax avoidance so don’t get involved.

“We’re here to help and if you think you have joined such a scheme, it is crucial that you leave it as soon as you can. The earlier you leave, the sooner you can settle the tax that you owe and reduce your chances of higher tax bills.”

 

Since April 2022, HMRC has used new powers to publicly name tax avoidance promoters to help customers stay clear of current and future schemes they promote.

By the end of  February 2023 a total of 26 promoters involved in promoting tax avoidance schemes have been named. The published list is not a complete list of all tax avoidance schemes currently being marketed nor a complete list of all promoters, enablers, and suppliers. If a tax avoidance scheme is not shown in the list, this does not mean that the scheme works or is in any way approved by HMRC. HMRC does not approve tax avoidance schemes for use.

HMRC’s Spotlight series published on GOV.UK provides information about tax avoidance schemes that HMRC believes are being used to avoid paying tax due.

Spotlight 60 published in August 2022 specifically warns about non-compliant umbrella companies and what to look out for.

For more information on HMRC’s Tax Avoidance – Don’t Get Caught Out campaign, go to this page.

 

If WLGA members become aware of a tax avoidance scheme or of an agency or umbrella company that is not following the tax rules, they should take action to report this to HMRC.

By helping public sector workers to steer clear of tax avoidance, will also help reduce reputational risks for the organisations they work for.  

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/hmrc-urges-contractors-not-to-get-caught-out-by-tax-avoidance http://www.wlga.gov.uk/hmrc-urges-contractors-not-to-get-caught-out-by-tax-avoidance http://www.wlga.gov.uk/hmrc-urges-contractors-not-to-get-caught-out-by-tax-avoidance Fri, 10 Mar 2023 10:17:00 GMT
Welsh Government has supported councils with today’s settlement, but tough decisions remain, says WLGA The WLGA has welcomed next year’s local government funding settlement from Welsh Government but warns that tough decisions remain due to continuing challenging economic circumstances.

Councils will receive an average 7.9% increase in funding from Welsh Government, which is around £400m.

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“Local services are the bedrock of our communities which are relied on by so many every day. We are very grateful to the Minister for listening to our case for investment in social care, schools, and other key services provided by local authorities. We are pleased that our expectations of funding from the consequential were exceeded. However, the economic outlook remains bleak which means that councils will still have to take difficult decisions to meet spiralling budget gaps due to energy bills, inflation and pay costs. This settlement covers just over half of the pressure we face in the next financial year. We will look forward to continuing the constructive engagement with Welsh Government so that we can work together to deliver for Wales.”

 

Councillor Mark Pritchard (Wrexham), WLGA Independent Group Leader said:

“I welcome the commitment shown by Welsh Government today to our local services. We have engaged in close dialogue with the Minister to outline the severe challenges we face, and that has been very much appreciated. The pressures facing councils the length and breadth of Wales simply cannot be overstated. At a time when residents are forced to choose from eating or heating, we want to continue to be there to provide support to our communities.

 

Councillor Llinos Medi (Anglesey), WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader said:

“Day in day out, our councils do incredible work to improve people’s lives and support our communities. But it is no secret that lifeline services, such as social care, are under intense pressure. Whilst we’re having to meet ever-rocketing energy bills and inflationary pressures, it means that we have significantly less money to spend on vital services. Whilst we very much appreciate this settlement by Welsh Government, it is by no means a silver bullet to extraordinary budget challenges. We will still have to consult our communities on some very difficult decisions to help ensure that vital services remain viable for those who need them.”

ENDS-

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/welsh-government-has-supported-councils-with-settlement-but-tough-decisions-remain http://www.wlga.gov.uk/welsh-government-has-supported-councils-with-settlement-but-tough-decisions-remain http://www.wlga.gov.uk/welsh-government-has-supported-councils-with-settlement-but-tough-decisions-remain Wed, 14 Dec 2022 11:33:00 GMT
“Hopeful of continuation of Welsh Government’s commitment to local services” Looking ahead to tomorrow’s local government settlement to be announced by Welsh Government, Councillor Anthony Hunt (Torfaen), WLGA Finance Spokesperson, said:

 

“Over recent months, we have made clear the devastating effects being wielded on council budgets due to surging inflationary pressures and sky-high energy bills. In turn, the impacts on our communities and residents are likely to be profound.”

“As it stands, local services are facing a £784m budget black hole next year alone which is only likely to rise ever further in subsequent years.

“As we look to the local government settlement, we appreciate that the Welsh Government’s financial firepower is limited, and we are realistic about the prospect for a solution which meets the huge pressures. But, as shown in close engagement and past funding settlements, we also know of Welsh Government’s commitment to our essential local services which contribute so much to our communities. We very much hope to see a commitment which, although unlikely to meet the huge budget gaps, will reflect the importance of our council-run local services.”

-ENDS-

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/hopeful-of-continuation-of-welsh-government’s-commitment-to-local-services http://www.wlga.gov.uk/hopeful-of-continuation-of-welsh-government’s-commitment-to-local-services http://www.wlga.gov.uk/hopeful-of-continuation-of-welsh-government’s-commitment-to-local-services Tue, 13 Dec 2022 22:00:00 GMT
“Autumn Statement is a missed opportunity to help our communities” Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“Whilst we will take time to analyse the detail, the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement today is a missed opportunity to help our communities when they need it most. While there may be modest additional funding for social care and schools, it will not bridge the current and future budget gap.  The UK government had an opportunity to invest in public services, but it has chosen not to do so.

“Cuts from 2025 to 2026 onwards will be devastating for communities not to mention the cuts for future years. This will also have a devastating impact for Welsh Government.

“Councils are still facing a gaping £802m budget hole over the next two years due to rising inflation, energy bills and pay costs which remain unaddressed. This means councils will be forced to take impossible decisions which will profoundly impact service provision.

“We welcome the extra money announced for our larger services, but it isn’t anywhere near enough to even begin to fill the ever-expanding budget gaps.”

“The UK government has rightly committed to uprate benefits. But without addressing the mammoth funding gaps in essential services relied on by so many in our communities, this is like robbing Peter to pay Paul.

“Services such as schools, social care and leisure centres face a tripling in energy costs, adding £200m to the huge pressure. Clarity is urgently needed about how the Energy Relief Scheme will work in non-domestic settings like schools beyond March next year.

“The UK government has acknowledged that there’s a rough road ahead for the economy. But instead of avoiding disaster, this Autumn Statement is headed straight for the danger. It is only proper funding of our local services which will support residents at this time of extraordinary crisis.”

-Ends –

 

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/autumn-statement-is-a-missed-opportunity-to-help-our-communities http://www.wlga.gov.uk/autumn-statement-is-a-missed-opportunity-to-help-our-communities http://www.wlga.gov.uk/autumn-statement-is-a-missed-opportunity-to-help-our-communities Tue, 13 Dec 2022 20:26:00 GMT
Autumn Statement: “Future of local services at stake” “The future of everyday services that are relied upon by our communities are at stake, such as schools, social care, environmental services, libraries, youth services and public protection.

“Councils are dealing with pressures on a scale never seen before. Inflation, soaring energy bills and other costs are squeezing essential services to the bone.

“As service demand soars due to the Cost of Living crisis, the Autumn Statement gives a chance for the UK government to invest in essential local services, so councils can help communities through the tough times. The alternative of further austerity risks the very future of these vital services.”

 

ENDS 

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/autumn-statement-future-of-local-services-at-stake http://www.wlga.gov.uk/autumn-statement-future-of-local-services-at-stake http://www.wlga.gov.uk/autumn-statement-future-of-local-services-at-stake Thu, 17 Nov 2022 11:04:00 GMT
Welsh local government calls for stability from UK government The WLGA has today warned of the serious harm that market turmoil is having on Welsh councils’ already-precarious budgets.

On Friday 23 September, the Chancellor’s mini budget provoked turmoil in the currency and debt markets, adding to the inflationary risk faced by council budgets.

At a meeting of the WLGA Executive Board, council leaders made clear their real concern at this impact on council services’ budgets.

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“We have long been clear of the financial storm facing local government. Energy bills, inflation, service demands, and pay costs are all already hitting essential local services hard. That storm could very well become a tsunami without action by UK government to reinstate confidence in the financial markets and to prevent inflation from soaring ever higher. The Chancellor’s mini budget was not some distant, far-away event, but a statement of intent with potent real-life consequences for public services and, in turn, communities. 

“Local services are at serious risk as a direct result of these choices. Inflationary pressures, energy costs and impact on borrowing is creating a significant hole in this year’s budgets and worse to come next year. Unless support is forthcoming, councils will have to consider service reductions and loss of jobs as a result. We will do all we can to mitigate this impact and have had discussions with the Minister for Finance and Local Government about the pressures faced. But as the Prime Minister meets today with the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), we urge the UK government to take a step back and to consider the effects of their policies on the public and public services.

“We also urgently need clarification around departmental efficiencies and confirmation of sustainable funding heading to Wales from Westminster, so that Welsh Government can invest in vital local services at such a critical time.”

 

ENDS-

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/welsh-local-government-calls-for-stability-from-uk-government http://www.wlga.gov.uk/welsh-local-government-calls-for-stability-from-uk-government http://www.wlga.gov.uk/welsh-local-government-calls-for-stability-from-uk-government Fri, 30 Sep 2022 15:24:00 GMT
WLGA response to UK government’s Energy Bill Relief Scheme Responding to today’s announcement by UK government of the Energy Bill Relief Scheme, Councillor Anthony Hunt (Torfaen), WLGA Finance Spokesperson said:

 

“Whilst we welcome the inclusion of councils in the UK government’s six-month energy price guarantee, we will take time to analyse the detail.

“The scale of the challenge facing local services cannot be overstated. Local services face up to 285% hikes in energy costs, which means much more support will be needed from UK government to meet the extraordinary pressures. Aside from surging energy bills, pay costs and rocketing inflation are forcing councils to look again at their spending plans just to meet their legal duty to balance budgets.

“Every day, our communities look to councils for support. But more resources are urgently needed if we are to protect our essential local services. We call on the UK government to provide more adequate support to help councils help communities.”

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-response-to-uk-government-energy-bill-relief-scheme http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-response-to-uk-government-energy-bill-relief-scheme http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-response-to-uk-government-energy-bill-relief-scheme Wed, 21 Sep 2022 16:55:00 GMT
WLGA calls on new Prime Minister to “help councils help communities” The WLGA has today congratulated Liz Truss following the announcement that she is to become the UK’s new Prime Minister but called on her to intervene immediately in the financial crisis gripping the country.

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“I would like to congratulate Liz Truss on becoming the UK’s next Prime Minister. As she steps into office, local government wants to work alongside her new administration and Welsh Government to help communities in need. Urgent action is needed now without delay. Households, businesses, and our essential local services are being squeezed like never before. The new Prime Minister will be judged on her actions in the days and weeks ahead.

“It is vital that the necessary funding is delivered immediately from Westminster to Wales to shield essential council services, businesses, and communities over the harsh months to come.”

 

Councillor Mark Pritchard (Wrexham), WLGA Independent Group Leader said:

“Over the past few years, Welsh local government has had a good working relationship with UK government, and we look forward to working in the same way in the future. Alongside Welsh Government, that partnership working will need to continue so that we can work together through these challenging times. As they have always done, our councils continue to step up to the plate to support our communities. But the budgetary hurdles we face are severe. We ask the new Prime Minister to help and support our communities across Wales by relieving the pressure on essential local services.”

 

Councillor Llinos Medi (Ynys Môn), WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader said:

“Whilst I congratulate Liz Truss on becoming the UK’s new Prime Minister, there is no overstating the sheer scale of the challenge for public services. Residents rely on essential services such as schools and social care day in, day out, and are looking to us for answers. We want our councils to continue to be there for our communities to help and support them. But support is urgently needed from Westminster to help meet enormous budgetary pressures. The new Prime Minister must act at once to help councils help communities.”

-ENDS-

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-calls-on-new-prime-minister-to-help-councils-help-communities http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-calls-on-new-prime-minister-to-help-councils-help-communities http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-calls-on-new-prime-minister-to-help-councils-help-communities Tue, 06 Sep 2022 15:32:00 GMT
Immediate action needed to combat surging costs of living In the face of spiralling costs of living and energy bills, the WLGA is calling for the UK Government to take action.

 

Councillor Anthony Hunt (Torfaen), WLGA Finance Spokesperson said:

“Councils are doing their utmost to support local communities in the face of the challenges which will be faced by many residents due to spiralling costs of living. Over 90% of eligible households have now received their £150 payment to help with energy bills. But action by the UK Government is required now to mitigate the impacts of huge energy price increases for local services, local businesses, and local communities.”

 

Councillor Rob Stewart (Swansea), WLGA Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for the Economy said

“The impacts of the unfolding cost of living crisis will be felt by our local schools, community centres, care homes and communities. The UK Government needs to act now to ensure our children, elderly, and communities are safe and warm this winter and beyond. This could see energy costs for local services rise by £100m this year.

“Our local businesses will also be facing huge energy price rises making them unsustainable and uncompetitive with partners in EU countries where governments are acting to protect citizens and businesses from extortionate and unmanageable energy bill rises. It’s imperative that the UK Government acts immediately.”

-ENDS-

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/immediate-action-needed-to-combat-surging-costs-of-living http://www.wlga.gov.uk/immediate-action-needed-to-combat-surging-costs-of-living http://www.wlga.gov.uk/immediate-action-needed-to-combat-surging-costs-of-living Thu, 25 Aug 2022 10:36:00 GMT
WLGA welcomes Social Care Bonus The WLGA has welcomed the Welsh Government announcement to provide £96m to give an extra £1,000 payment for thousands of social care workers, aligned to the introduction of the real living wage.

 

Cllr Huw David (Bridgend), WLGA Spokesperson for Social Care and Health said:

 

“The social care workforce has been phenomenal throughout this period and so we welcome this additional payment which contributes towards acknowledging the tremendous effort, immeasurable contributions and sacrifices social care workers have made during extremely difficult times, recognising the invaluable care and support that social care workers provide to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

 

“Throughout the pandemic the social care system has been and continues to be under immense strain. The WLGA has long been calling for the need for extra funding for the social care sector in Wales in order to place it on a sustainable footing and we welcome the additional funding for social care in Welsh Government’s draft budget, including funding to pay social care workers the Real Living Wage. However, we know there remains significant challenges ahead. Local government remain committed to working with all partners to ensure that the social care system is an attractive career choice to individuals, where workers are valued, appropriately rewarded and have a pathway to career progression within a professionalised care sector.”

 

-ENDS-

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-welcomes-social-care-bonus http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-welcomes-social-care-bonus http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-welcomes-social-care-bonus Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:31:00 GMT
WLGA calls on UK Treasury to urgently clarify “extra £175m” funding for hard-hit Welsh families The WLGA is calling on UK Treasury to urgently clarify whether an additional £175m pledged for Wales last week, because of an energy bill support package in England, will materialise.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced last week that Wales will receive an extra £175m as part of a Council Tax Rebate plan. However, there now seems to be some doubt as to whether this is additional funding.

 

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“Spiralling costs of living are pushing people to their limit. Thousands are having to make the stark choice between heating and eating just to survive.

“Whilst the Chancellor has announced a support package aimed at helping families in England, it remains unclear whether hard-hit families in Wales will receive any support

“People across Wales deserve, and are awaiting, certainty. Why should hard working Welsh families be deprived of the support pledged by the UK Government to England? We have written to the UK Treasury seeking urgent clarity on whether or not Wales will actually see an extra £175m as indications now suggest there will be no Barnett consequence due to other departmental spending changes in England.

“Local government in Wales stands ready to work with Welsh Government to deliver support once we are clear what, if any, additional funding is available.”

 

ENDS -

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-calls-on-uk-treasury-to-urgently-clarify-extra-£175m-funding-for-hard-hit-welsh-families http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-calls-on-uk-treasury-to-urgently-clarify-extra-£175m-funding-for-hard-hit-welsh-families http://www.wlga.gov.uk/wlga-calls-on-uk-treasury-to-urgently-clarify-extra-£175m-funding-for-hard-hit-welsh-families Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:46:00 GMT
Eligible businesses impacted by Omicron urged to apply for financial support Eligible businesses in Wales that have been impacted by the rapid spread of Omicron are being urged to apply to their local council for financial support.

 

Two grants are being administered by councils on behalf of the Welsh Government.

 

Retail, hospitality, leisure, and tourism businesses in Wales can be considered for a payment of £2,000, £4,000 or £6,000 depending on their rateable value. Registration opened on 13 January 2022 for this Non-Domestic Rates (NDR) linked grant. The fund will be open until Monday, 14 February 2022.

 

A discretionary fund is also being administered by local councils to support supply chain businesses to the four affected sectors. The fund can provide £1,000 to eligible sole traders and freelancers and £2,000 to eligible employing businesses that have been financially impacted by the restrictions to the business sectors that they supply. Applications to the discretionary fund can be made until Monday, 14 February 2022.

 

The financial support and business grant follows the announcement from the Economy Minister Vaughan Gething that £120 million would be available for retail, hospitality, leisure, and tourism business in Wales affected by latest restrictions and their supply chains in Wales.

 

Councillor Rob Stewart, WLGA Economic Development, Inward Investment and Energy spokesperson said:

 

“Throughout the pandemic, local authorities have worked hard to support businesses who have been hit by the great difficulties posed by the pandemic. We welcome the latest £120 million package by Welsh Government, which will help to ease the pressure on Welsh businesses.

 

“We urge any eligible businesses to visit their local authority’s website for more details, and to apply for funding before applications close.”

 

If you are interested in applying for the above grants, please check your local authority website for more details. Businesses can also access the Local Authority funds via the Business Wales website COVID-19 Support for Business.

 

-ENDS-

 

Notes to editor:

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/eligible-businesses-impacted-by-omicron-urged-to-apply-for-financial-support http://www.wlga.gov.uk/eligible-businesses-impacted-by-omicron-urged-to-apply-for-financial-support http://www.wlga.gov.uk/eligible-businesses-impacted-by-omicron-urged-to-apply-for-financial-support Wed, 09 Feb 2022 11:58:00 GMT
Best settlement in decades a boost for communities and vital local services, says WLGA Local government has welcomed one of the best financial settlements since the beginning of devolution, recognising the significant challenges which remain for council budgets.

 

Councils will see an average of 9.4% increase to their core revenue in 2022-23, representing a £437m year-on-year boost. Indicative allocations for the next two years have also been published by Welsh Government, which will give welcome support to councils in planning ahead. 

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“This is a very welcome settlement and will be a massive boost for our communities. It provides investment for local services and gives councils the additional certainty in the future that is required in extraordinary times.

“The financial support for councils from the Welsh Government has been vital in responding to the crisis. A settlement of this scale helps put local services on a firmer financial footing than has been the case in a long time. This is the result of months of constructive dialogue between ministers, leaders and officials in local government and the Welsh Government.

“Investment in councils is more than figures on a spread sheet. It’s about investing in our communities, our people and in our vital services that help improve and change lives, whilst continuing to respond to two global challenges: the pandemic and climate change.”

 

Councillor Anthony Hunt (Torfaen), WLGA Finance Spokesperson said:

“Today’s announcement is a generous uplift in revenue funding and will help us deliver improved outcomes across all our services. I am pleased that additional funding for social care starts to address our long-held concerns about pay for carers and rewards those who provide the most critical services for the most vulnerable in our communities. This kind of positive outcome reflects our partnership approach to government in Wales and our regular engagement with ministers, and I would like to thank them for recognising the critical role that council services play.”

“The underlying increase in funding will meet our basic budget inflationary pressures and additional pressures caused by the increase in National Insurance but I’m pleased that the Welsh Government is also providing funding to pay registered carers the real living wage.”

 

Councillor Hugh Evans OBE (Denbighshire), WLGA Independent Group Leader said:

“I welcome this settlement announced today by Welsh Government. Not only does it recognise how our essential local services are playing a front-line role in responding to the pandemic, but also their life enhancing role every day of the year in our communities. More than ever before, our communities are looking to local government for guidance and support through these very difficult times.

“Local government will also welcome the funding allocations published for the next two years, which will place councils in much better stead to plan ahead with more certainty.”

 

Councillor Emlyn Dole (Carmarthenshire), WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader said:

“I very much welcome this settlement from Welsh Government, which is one of the best councils will have seen for a long time. It is testament to the constructive and regular dialogue which has been had with ministers and wider Members of the Senedd, which has certainly been appreciated by council leaders.

“While there is a lot to unpack, the funding announced for councils will also help to launch some of the bold policies outlined in the Co-operation Agreement, including free school meals for all primary school pupils. I look forward to continue to work closely with Welsh Government in developing approaches to those ambitions.”

 

Councillor Richard John (Monmouthshire), WLGA Conservative Group Leader said:

“This is a significant local government settlement from Welsh Government which rightly recognises the extraordinary role of our local services. I am grateful to ministers for listening to us as council leaders, and for making the most of the generous allocation given to the Welsh Treasury by the UK Government. It shows what can be achieved for communities in Wales and across the UK when local, Welsh and UK governments work together. This settlement will help us to make sure our cherished essential local services can continue to support our communities when they need it.”

 

- ENDS-

 

Notes for Editors

The provisional local government settlement will now be subject to a seven-week consultation period, which will end on 8 February 2022 in advance of Welsh Government setting its final budget.

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/best-settlement-in-decades-a-boost-for-communities-and-vital-local-services-says-wlga http://www.wlga.gov.uk/best-settlement-in-decades-a-boost-for-communities-and-vital-local-services-says-wlga http://www.wlga.gov.uk/best-settlement-in-decades-a-boost-for-communities-and-vital-local-services-says-wlga Tue, 21 Dec 2021 14:53:00 GMT
Chancellor’s Budget: Extra money for Wales welcomed The WLGA has welcomed extra funding for Wales announced in the UK government budget. The Chancellor announced an annual increase of £2.5bn to Welsh Government’s budget over the next three years, which will give ministers an opportunity to invest in essential local services such as social care services.

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

 “Whilst we are taking time to scrutinise the implications of the Budget announcements, I welcome the extra £2.5bn funding which will help the Welsh Government to bolster council-run local services. The COVID crisis served to open many eyes to the power of council services such as social care and environmental health in our communities, and this funding could go some way to recognise their immense life-enhancing contribution.”

 

Councillor Richard John (Monmouthshire), WLGA Spokesperson on UK Intergovernmental Relations and Levelling up said:

 “This is a bold budget announced by the Chancellor today which will see Welsh Government receive a very healthy £2.5bn boost for the next three years. That gives it ample opportunity to invest in vital Welsh public services including our creaking social care system and schools. In this budget, the UK government has yet again shown its commitment to all corners of the United Kingdom, and I very much hope that the Welsh Government now takes the chance to grasp the nettle to show its commitment to invest in local communities.”

 “In addition to the main announcement, the Spending Review also included news of successful bids by councils to the Levelling up Fund. Ten of the bids submitted were successful and, as a result, a total of £121m will now be invested in projects in six local authority areas. Not all of the bids submitted by councils were successful and not all of them bid in the first round. However, there will be opportunities to bid in subsequent rounds. No further details were provided by the Chancellor about the Shared Prosperity Fund which is the intended replacement for former European Union funding.”

 

Councillor Rob Stewart (Swansea), WLGA Deputy Leader and Spokesperson on Economic Development, Inward Investment and Energy, said:

 “I welcome the additional funding that has been announced for Wales. However, I am bitterly disappointed that many areas including my own authority of Swansea have received no support from the Levelling up Fund. Many councils worked hard to pull together bids but there will be communities feeling very hard done by today. Although Wales has received around 7% of the levelling up funding allocated across the UK it is important to highlight that this is going to fund projects in only six of the 22 council areas.

“We are still waiting to hear details of the Shared Prosperity Fund, which is intended to replace EU funding, and is needed urgently if we are going to return to the levels of funding we had for economic development in Wales pre-Brexit via the EU.  We feared we would not see the same amount of funding coming from London as from Brussels and that has so far proved to be correct.

“I am also very concerned that the Community Renewal Fund outcomes have still not been announced. This does not bode well as these were promised in late July and we are now approaching November. I understand an extension into 2022/23 is under consideration and I would hope that confirmation on that point, and on the successful CRF bids, can be given as soon as possible. The people of Wales deserve to be treated more fairly than they are at present.”

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/chancellor’s-budget-extra-money-for-wales-welcomed http://www.wlga.gov.uk/chancellor’s-budget-extra-money-for-wales-welcomed http://www.wlga.gov.uk/chancellor’s-budget-extra-money-for-wales-welcomed Wed, 27 Oct 2021 16:31:00 GMT
New data shows true scale of coal tip challenge as First Minister makes fresh funding call New data showing the true extent of Wales’ coal tip challenge has been published today as the First Minister of Wales makes a fresh call for the UK government to invest in coal tip safety and ‘help communities who have already given so much’.

For the first time ever, the Welsh Government has been able to provide a breakdown of the 2,456 identified tips in Wales split into risk categories and by local authority.

The new data follows a written statement from Climate Change Minister Julie James earlier this month where she confirmed Welsh Government had collected the data and shared with local authorities and Local Resilience Forums to assist with emergency preparedness.

The data shows that Neath Port Talbot has the greatest number of sites at 607 but that Rhondda Cynon Taf has the most sites classified as being at higher risk at 75.

Higher risk sites fall under categories C and D which recognise there is a potential to cause risk to safety, not that there is an imminent or immediate threat – it means that more frequent inspections are scheduled.

The publication of the data comes ahead of this afternoon’s Coal Tip Safety Summit, which is meeting for the fourth time. The summit will discuss the progress of the Coal Tip Safety Task Force, including data mapping and ongoing maintenance and inspection work.

Funding for the long-term reclamation of coal tips will also be discussed at the summit. Repurposing, reclamation and remediation of disused coal tips to deal with the legacy of the pre-devolution mining industry is estimated to cost at least £500 million to £600 million over the next decade and a half. The Welsh Government has stressed the need for this investment to be frontloaded in the coming years, as rainfall intensifies and temperatures increase because of the changing climate.

 

Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales, said:

We recognise how concerning living in the shadow of a coal tip can be for communities and we want to reassure local residents that a lot of work is being done to ensure they are safe.

An inspection and maintenance regime is in place, with winter inspections currently underway on the higher risk tips. We’re also piloting technology trials to better understand any ground movement at higher risk sites. But we know the risks will increase with climate change and we know the importance of reaching a long-term solution.

These sites pre-date devolution. Our funding settlement does not recognise the substantial, long-term costs of remediating and repairing these sites. Tomorrow’s Spending Review is an opportunity for the UK government to use its financial powers to help communities who’ve given so much to Wales and the United Kingdom during the coal-mining years. A package of investment to remediate these sites will show how our two governments can work together for the communities we serve.

 

Councillor Andrew Morgan (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

Work is being undertaken regularly to monitor and inspect coal tips for any movement or activity. However, this data shows that substantial long-term investment is needed if we are to make sure that necessary repair work is carried out and to ensure the safety of these sites across Wales.

I am pleased that both the UK government and Welsh Government are taking the issue seriously and have set up the Coal Tip Safety Task Force to jointly map out the work needed. However, despite a cross-party joint letter endorsed by all of the 22 council leaders in Wales requesting UK government funding, it is disappointing that the UK government - despite some initial financial support - has so far refused to commit to an ongoing programme of funding which is going to be needed to deal with this legacy issue which pre-dates devolution. The Spending Review gives a chance for the UK government to give some much-needed reassurance to communities that are still living in the shadow of their industrial legacy. By working together with partners including UK government, Welsh Government and local government, and with long term investment, we can help to make sure that we protect these sites against future climate change risks, and to prevent repeating past disasters.

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http://www.wlga.gov.uk/new-data-shows-true-scale-of-coal-tip-challenge-as-first-minister-makes-fresh-funding-call http://www.wlga.gov.uk/new-data-shows-true-scale-of-coal-tip-challenge-as-first-minister-makes-fresh-funding-call http://www.wlga.gov.uk/new-data-shows-true-scale-of-coal-tip-challenge-as-first-minister-makes-fresh-funding-call Mon, 25 Oct 2021 16:39:00 GMT