Laura Sharman 01 July 2015

Reserves already allocated for use by councils, shows survey

The majority of councils have already earmarked their cash reserves for specific purposes, new research has revealed.

A survey by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) found that while local authorities have increased their levels of reserves over the last parliament, 80% was already allocated to meet known or predicted spending requirements.

The survey also revealed that 94% of local authorities would be using their reserves, with 40% saying they are increasing reserves to meet the financial pressures of Government policy.

Rob Whiteman CIPFA CEO said: ‘Local authorities know that using reserves to provide for future services, protect against risks and manage the transformation of services is the right way for local authorities to manage their finances in the long-term interests of their communities and the country.

‘Reserves are a vital part of prudential financial management and councils should be congratulated that they have sensibly been building up their reserves to both enable them to safeguard future services for local communities and to protect against both known and unknown risks.’

In April 2014, councils held £19.8bn in reserves, with £13.8bn set aside for future local public spending and £2.3bn earmarked for schools or public health projects.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Tea Time Club Assistant

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro-rata
Tea Time Club Assistant  Grade 1 £24,027 pro-rata Permanent 10 hours per week Required from September 2025 Would you like to work with a group of won Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Licensing Assistant

Durham County Council
£26,403 £28,598
The Community Protection Service is looking for 2 Licensing Assistants to join the Business Compliance Team    1 x Temporary for 1 year 1 x Temporary Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lunchtime Supervisor

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro rata
Lunchtime Supervisor  Required from 1st September 2025 Grade 1    £24,027 pro rata Permanent We are seeking to appoint a Lunchtime Supervisor to join Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Child Protection Chair (Registered Social Worker)

North East Lincolnshire Council
Up to £48,710 dependent upon experience
We are seeking an Child Protection Chair who is a registered qualified and experienced Social Worker. North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Organisation and Service Designer

North East Lincolnshire Council
NJC34 £43,693
If you’re someone who can blend creative storytelling to inspire customers, staff and leaders North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council
Linkedin Banner