Commenting on a report from Slough Borough Council that it faces a £10m hole in its budget, UNISON South East regional secretary Steve Torrance said today (Tuesday):
“Councils like Slough are facing massive pressures because of the extra spending on responsibilities arising from the pandemic. Many are already on the brink financially.
“Existing short-term government handouts barely begin to cover the financial black hole created by the extra costs of the virus and other factors outside of the control of the council.
“Vital staff who’ve been running essential services and supporting local communities shouldn’t be at risk of losing their jobs because of the long-term underfunding of councils. Nor should the public face losing vital local services.
“Ministers need to get a grip and urgently agree a package of support for Slough, and all local authorities.”
Media contacts:
Kieran Pearson M: 07432 741595 E: k.pearson@unison.co.uk
National Press office E: press@unison.co.uk
