Mark Whitehead 29 November 2016

Scottish councils facing financial shortfalls warns watchdog

Councils in Scotland have managed their finances well but face big challenges ahead, spending watchdogs have warned.

In its annual review, the Accounts Commission, which oversees Scottish local authorities' financial management, said councils had remained within their overall budgets, increased their reserves slightly and reduced their debt in 2015/16.

But it said all councils face financial shortfalls requiring further savings or using reserves and they need to 'change the way they work' if they are to make the spending reductions required.

Income from the Scottish Government, which provides around 60% of councils' total funding had fallen by 8.4% in real terms over the past six years.

The commission warns that further reductions are expected while demand on key services, particularly social care, continues to rise. Councils also face increased cost pressures in areas such as pension provision.

The commission's deputy chair Ronnie Hinds said: 'Councils are generally doing a good job with their finances in difficult circumstances.

'But pressures continue to increase on a number of fronts at the same time as they face the prospect of further reductions in their funding.

'It's vital that councillors and officers set medium and long-term financial plans based on clear priorities for the services they provide to their communities.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Homefinder Officer - Harlow Council

Essex County Council
Up to £17.7100 per hour
Homefinder Officer - Harlow Council Location, HarlowFull time, Temporary 3 Months Contract £17.71 PAYE / £22.18 Umbrella Closing Date
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Educational Psychologist

West Northamptonshire Council
£49,685 - £60,048
West Northamptonshire Educational Psychology Service is seeking to recruit creative and innovative psychologists to expand its existing team of skilled and friendly staff, as we develop and grow. Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Facilites Assistant

Ashfield District Council
£32,061 - £34,434 per annum
A great opportunity has arisen to be involved in the assistance of managing key Council facilities Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Ashfield District Council

Vehicle Technician

Ashfield District Council
£36,561 - £38,934 per annum including market forces supplement
We are looking for someone who is highly motivated, enthusiastic, and excited about keeping our wheels on the road. Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Ashfield District Council

Contract Liaison Officer

Ashfield District Council
£35,412 - £38,220 per annum
You will also complete stock condition surveys to properties and assets managed by the Council Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Ashfield District Council
Linkedin Banner