Surrey County Council Proposes 15% Rise In Council Tax To Fill Social Care Shortfall

David Hodge, Leader of Surrey County Council, has announced a proposal to seek a council tax rise of 15%.

He said: “We have to set a budget that will protect vital services for Surrey residents. “Government has cut our annual grant by £170m since 2010 – leaving a huge gap in our budget.“ Demand for adults social care, learning disabilities and children’s services is increasing every year. “So I regret, despite us finding £450m worth of savings from our annual budget, we have no choice but to propose this increase in council tax.”

However, money is tight in households but the care sector cannot survive unless more resources are put into it says GMB Southern.

Andy Prendergast, GMB Southern region officer, said “GMB has been calling for years for Surrey County Council to move from one of the lowest in the UK for support for residents in care homes. In 2014 we pointed out that while the Rowntree recommended level of payment for residents in care should be £600 per week Surrey was paying £326.45, the lowest in the country.

Surrey residents are faced with Hobson’s choice.  Money is tight in households but the care sector cannot survive unless more resources are put into it. GMB call for a yes vote. More support is needed from the national exchequer and residents should seek pay rises to fund this additional call by Surrey County Council. GMB will support members seeking pay rises to afford this additional money for the care sector.”