New council briefing sessions on cost-of-living crisis and impacts on council spending plans

Bath & North East Somerset Council is holding two special online briefings to discuss the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on residents and businesses and the impacts on council finances. 

The briefings will be held on Zoom at 6pm on Wednesday 2 November and Thursday 3 November. Updates on the current situation will be provided by Cllr Richard Samuel, deputy Leader of the council and cabinet member for Resources, Will Godfrey, Chief Executive and Andy Rothery, Chief Finance Officer. 

Cllr Samuel said: “Spiralling energy costs and rising inflation are affecting us all. Many people are finding it difficult to pay fuel bills and businesses are struggling to balance their books. More and more people need our support, but in common with many other councils we face significant financial challenges too."

“In the coming year we will need to prioritise our spending and, together with our partners, respond to the needs of the most vulnerable and those facing financial hardship. However, given the economic climate, we must also support business and the local economy to ensure our area attracts investment and supports high-quality jobs. This balancing act won’t be easy and it’s clear we will need to make difficult decisions."

“The Medium Term Financial Strategy, which sets out the strategic direction and priorities for the council as well outlining the financial context and challenges the council faces over the next five years will come to cabinet on 10 November. It will help to inform and shape our spending plans, which will be finalised by Council in February. This on-line briefing will also provide an opportunity to share information on the current position and the challenges we face. I urge people to sign up and get involved.” 

People who want to take part in the online briefings are requested to register in advance via the following links: 
Wednesday 2 November 
Thursday 3 November 

The council and its partners are providing support through the Community Wellbeing Hub on 0300 247 0050 and have set up a dedicated website providing advice and information on food support, energy, money matters and wellbeing services. A directory of warm places where people struggling with rising energy bills can go to keep warm over the cold winter months has also been created.