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

Housing Ombudsman

Housing Ombudsman Service
£130,095 per annum, negotiable based on experience.
The Housing Ombudsman Service allows colleagues to choose if they wish to work in the London office, from home or a hybrid of the two London (Greater)
Recuriter: Housing Ombudsman Service

Head of Legal and Monitoring Officer

Powys County Council
£90,347 – £98,135 per annum/y flwyddyn
We’re seeking an energetic, innovative, and inspirational leader to join our team at Powys County Council Powys
Recuriter: Powys County Council

Administration Assistant - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
Up to £14.0200 per hour
Operations Administration Assistant - Braintree District Council£14.02 PAYE / £17.95 Umbrella Braintree, EssexPart-Time, Temporary Closing Date
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Adult Social Care Practice Lead - Quality Assurance Team

Essex County Council
£46574 - £56027 per annum + Flexible Working, Hybrid Working
*Experience the best of both worlds with our flexible hybrid working arrangements. Enjoy the freedom to work from home while still benefiting from in England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Recycling Centre Site Manager

Essex County Council
£29653.00 - £34885.00 per annum
RCHW Site ManagerPermanent, Full Time£29,653 up to £34,885 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner