Budget supports day-to-day needs of most vulnerable
Vulnerable residents will be at the heart of the new budget as the council invests more than £16m in children’s and adults’ services.
Despite the lack of government funding, the council have made it a priority to support those in the community who need it most.
With interest rates soaring and inflation at an all-time high, the council made the difficult decision to increase council tax by 2.99%, plus the 2% Adult Social Care precept so it is able to continue delivering key services.
Cllr Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Finance and Local Investment, said:
"I’m pleased that Haringey has once again delivered a balanced budget and, as a council that takes its financial responsibilities very seriously. We are planning for the future so that we can face the difficult years ahead with more confidence. This hasn’t been easy; every year local government is being asked to do more with less, and we are facing astronomical inflationary pressures.
"Despite the lack of long-term, sustainable funding from central government, our 2023-2028 budget includes additional resources to address priority issues, such as committing more than £16m to support our most vulnerable residents’ day-to-day needs.
"We are continuing our Council Tax support scheme which helps those most in need reduce the cost of their council tax bill, as well as our Cost-of-Living support programme for residents and businesses.
"We are only able to do all of this by raising Council Tax but this is still an increase well below inflation. If we do not increase Council Tax, we are in real danger of having to make even harder budget choices."
The council is dedicated to investing for the long term by strengthening its approach to the climate emergency and providing additional funds for the public realm such as cycling and walking infrastructure, roads, pavements and streetlights.
Additional spending will also include money for parks and green spaces, school buildings and properties to provide high quality, temporary accommodation.
The major programme to deliver a new generation of council homes will continue, as well as substantial improvements for existing council homes.
Cllr Williams added:
"Despite the challenges ahead, the council is ambitious for Haringey’s future. We want to be a net zero emissions borough, with 400 more electric vehicle charging points, 60 more School Streets, and 10,000 more trees by 2030. We are building 3,000 council homes by 2031 whilst also ensuring 50% of new homes are truly affordable.
"We are investing in our high streets and small businesses and celebrating our diverse cultures. All the while we are meeting the growing needs of our most vulnerable residents and tackling inequality – all in the name of building a fairer, greener borough."
For residents struggling to make ends meet, please visit www.haringey.gov.uk/HereToHelp to see the range of support and advice available including, the Haringey Support Fund and extended free school meal entitlement.
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