A £120m package of additional funding to support local
authorities has been confirmed today.
Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, , said the substantial package
for 2024-25 will support crucial areas including education,
social care and housing, ensuring councils can continue
delivering essential services in their communities.
The Cabinet Secretary said: “Local authorities are our key
partners – they deliver the services we rely on every day and we
recognise the real challenges and financial pressures they're
facing.
“This additional funding recognises and will help alleviate some
of these pressures and support a range of housing, education and
social care services.
“We're committed to strengthening local governments, helping them
plan for the future and deliver for the people of Wales.”
The Welsh Local Government Association welcomed the new in-year
funding. Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, WLGA Leader said: “This
additional one-off funding is a welcome boost for councils across
Wales, and it reflects the critical role local authorities play
in delivering the services our communities depend on.
“Our schools, social care teams, and housing services are facing
unprecedented pressures, so it's reassuring to see this support
for essential areas.
“The support for schools is particularly important, ensuring that
pupils receive the assistance they require to thrive in education
and beyond. This funding will help councils continue their vital
work, delivering for the people of Wales despite the financial
challenges we face.”
Some of the funding in this package for local government was
included in the £157m for the First Minister's priorities, which
was announced at the beginning of the week.
Local authorities will also receive some additional funding to
support domiciliary care in 2024-25 following a decision by the
Welsh Government to retain the £100-a-week maximum charge for
home-based care.
The additional funding for local authorities includes:
- £52.3m to support local government pay pressures for 2024-25
- £10m invested in social housing
- Support for domiciliary care – the £100 a week maximum care
charge will be maintained
- £10m for reablement services to increase community-based care
and improve hospital discharge
- £30m to support schools
- £18.2m for the 2024-25 teachers' pay award
ENDS
Notes to editors
The funding package is being allocated to local authorities in
Wales in 2024-25.
Education Secretary referred to additional funding
for schools in her Improving
Attendancestatement on Tuesday.
Health Secretary provided some details about
additional funding for reablement in his 50-day Challenge statement
on Tuesday.
Welsh Ministers have agreed to maintain the £100-a-week maximum
charge for non-residential care and support.
The First Minister announced £157m to support her priorities on
Monday: New funding announced to
deliver First Minister's priorities | GOV.WALES
