Somerset residents and businesses are being invited to share their views on council services and spending priorities as Somerset Council opens its annual budget consultation. The feedback will help shape the council's budget for the financial year 2025/26, which is due to be set in February 2025.

The council faces significant financial challenges, with a projected funding gap of £88.8m for the next financial year. Efforts are already underway to reduce this to £53.8m, including a major staff restructuring programme. The consultation offers an opportunity for the public to influence how the council tackles these challenges.

Financial pressures and tough decisions

Since declaring a financial emergency in November 2023, Somerset Council has been working to avoid issuing a Section 114 notice—a measure akin to a bankruptcy notice for councils, triggered when they cannot balance their budgets.

Council Leader, Councillor Bill Revans, said: "We have been very open about our financial emergency due to soaring costs and demands on services like adults and children's social care.

"We have worked hard to avoid a S114 notice and have had to consider many difficult and heart-breaking decisions.

"But we are also a listening council, and last year we took on board feedback from our budget consultation to remove some proposals and protect others by working in partnership with our fantastic city, town, and parish councils."

A chance to influence priorities

The council is encouraging everyone to participate in the consultation, which closes on 15 January. Feedback from last year's consultation led to changes in planned cuts and the protection of certain services.

Councillor Revans added: "You told us we should be lobbying the Government for fairer funding and we have done so, using every opportunity to highlight the national financial crisis which clearly needs a national solution.

"We will continue to use our voice to stand up for Somerset. Please use your voice to let us know what matters to you."

How to take part

The consultation is open online until 15 January. Residents and businesses can have their say by visiting the council's dedicated budget consultation page: Somerset Council Budget Consultation 2025/26.

Key dates

• Consultation closes: 15 January 2025
• Budget decision: February 2025

This is your chance to help shape Somerset's future—make your voice heard.