West Sussex Leaders fighting to protect frontline services

A joint statement issued by the Leaders of West Sussex County Council, Adur and Worthing Councils, Arun District Council, Chichester District Council, Horsham District Council, Mid Sussex District Council

All the council leaders from across West Sussex (with the exception of Crawley Borough Council) met earlier this week to discuss the budget situation faced by West Sussex County Council due to lack of central government funding.

West Sussex County Council explained the financial challenges of reduced government funding and the increased demands for the statutory services of Children’s and Adult Social Care. 

West Sussex County Council has already saved £145m over the last 8 years but now faces a funding gap of £146m over the next 4 years. 

The leaders agreed how they could work together to try to mitigate the potential impacts of the cuts on vulnerable groups.

It was acknowledged that in the next four year period there is insufficient funding and it was agreed to write collectively to the Government highlighting the difficult decisions that will need to be taken if social care services are not adequately funded.  

They expressed regret that Crawley Borough Council would not participate in this joint work for local communities.

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