A CALL has gone out to help hard pressed families in Warwickshire.
Liberal Democrats on Warwickshire County Council (WCC) have urged the Conservative administration to set up a cross party commission on children’s services – particularly focused on special educational needs, disability, and mental health.
Lib Dem group leader Coun Jerry Roodhouse said: “The pressure on services continues. Over the last five years WCC have taken £88.4million out of its budget and future savings running into millions will be needed.
“The pressure on children and families is increasing – everything from self harm, mental health and special educational needs and disability services – and we believe that a cross party commission approach is now needed.
“Continuing austerity in local government combined with the continued uncertainty of Brexit means that there is a need for new type of politics and open dialogue to manage the risks and deliver the best for the people of Warwickshire.”
The Lib Dem appeal comes ahead of WCC setting its budget and council tax for the coming year.
Council leader Izzi Seccombe said the Conservative administration, had like other local authorities, faced the twin challenges of reduced government grant and rising demand for services.
Coun Seccombe added: “We have met the double challenges by being clear over our ambition to grow the local economy, and look after those most vulnerable in our society.
“We have achieved our savings targets by modernising services. Most importantly, Warwickshire County Council is financially robust at a time when other authorities are facing serious financial situations.
“I am grateful to the Liberal Democrats for bring forward their ideas early. We are constantly reviewing our spending against pressures, and are finalising the details of our budget.
“We are proud of our achievements and intend to continue to make Warwickshire the best it can be.”
