Public health grant allocations: CCN response

Today the government has announced its public health grant allocations for councils.

County Councils Network member councils will receive a 5.2% average increase in their grants next financial year.

Below, the CCN has responded:

Cllr David Williams, chairman of the County Councils Network responds:

“Today’s confirmation of the public health grant is not before time – with public health services already playing a hugely important preventative role in tackling Coronavirus. The announcement of a 4.6% national increase is welcome, with County Councils Network member councils witnessing a 5.2% average increase. However some 13 counties are below the national average due to adjustments to cover the estimated additional Agenda for Change pay costs of eligible staff.

“Councils’ public health terms are working around the clock to support the nation’s effort in supressing the virus, and their stellar efforts in the face of fluid and unique circumstances deserves huge praise.

“But bearing in mind public health funding has reduced by £700m over the past five years, and with counties the lowest funded type of council on a per-head basis , it is clear that services were already underfunded before the Covid-19 outbreak. Therefore, we urge the government to provide short-term emergency support for councils over the next few months so they can continue to assist with the national effort to protect communities.”