Mark Whitehead 28 September 2018

Welsh councils warn of 'financial winter' of redundancies

Some of the extra cash being provided for health services could to be used to help struggling local authorities, council leaders in Wales have suggested.

The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has warned a 'financial winter' of redundancies and cuts in essential services is on the way.

It says a survey of the 22 councils in Wales shows they have 'run out of road' after eight years of austerity.

But it says £1.4bn of investment is 'coming down the M4' after the announcement of £20bn additional spend on the NHS in England.

The WLGA says that added to cash already earmarked that would mean a 7% rise in funding for health services in Wales on top of a 3.1% planned increase, yet councils may end up with nothing extra.

It says targets for savings and efficiencies are now moving to all areas, including the larger services, while any remaining smaller discretionary areas, such as youth services, will continue to disappear.

Without extra funding, job losses are estimated to run at up to 7,000 jobs or 5% of headcount a year over the medium term and council taxes will rise.

WLGA chief executive Steve Thomas said: 'Council tax payers across Wales need respite and the best way for Welsh government to do this is honour their words on prevention and properly fund local services.'

Keeping local audit on the agenda image

Keeping local audit on the agenda

Local audit reforms risk being overshadowed by devolution and reorganisation. Why proper scrutiny is vital to protect accountability and public trust.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Principal Accountant (Housing) - Basildon Borough Council

Essex County Council
Up to £175.0000 per day
Principal Accountant (Housing)Basildon, Essex £134.450 PAYE / £175 Umbrella daily rate Temporary Contact - April 2026 Full-Time, 36.25 hour per week** England, Essex, Basildon
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Educational Psychologist

North East Lincolnshire Council
Soulbury Scale A 4-9, plus up to 3 SPA points.
The North East Lincolnshire Community Educational Psychology Service is deeply committed to making a positive impact North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Children's Social Workers - Family Help Service

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Up to £52,767 per annum (subject to experience) p
Are you a passionate and experienced Social Worker ready to change lives and shape futures? Wandsworth, London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Senior Business Support Officer

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£35,391 – £45,564 per annum
Senior BusinessSupport Officer£35,... Wandsworth, London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Project Support Officer

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£38,976 - £ 52,767
Project Support Officer... Greater London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Linkedin Banner