This year is set to be a defining period for local government with the conclusion of the Fair Funding and Spending Reviews, and publication of the long awaited social care green paper and devolution framework.

After a decade of severe funding reductions, County finances are at tipping point. The funding of local government is no longer sustainable, and, crucially, is unfair.

There is unanimous acceptance that the present way of funding councils is opaque, outdated, and unfit for purpose. CCN has been advocating for a distribution of resource between councils which is simpler but needs-led, responding to the real drivers of councils costs and demands.

Whilst eradicating the unfair nature of the present system is vital, it is absolutely paramount that local government secures extra resource in the upcoming Spending Review. CCN, alongside other parts of the local government sector, will be making a compelling and united case for additional resources for councils.

Funding alone, however, will not make local government fit for the future. CCN will also be making its member councils’ ambitions heard loud and clear.

We will showcase our efficiency record to-date and the value of investing in county authorities; demonstrating in the process how they can improve their communities with a reformed role in public services and devolved powers to deliver housing and growth.

Our campaign, A Fairer Future for Counties, aims to secure a brighter dawn for local government and our communities.