Responding to the local government finance policy statement, President of ADASS Jess McGregor said: “The long-overdue update to the Adult Social Care Relative Needs Formula is a crucial step forwards. ADASS has always believed that funding should follow need, and a formula last refreshed in 2010/11 could no longer reflect the realities facing those who rely on care and support today.
“We are also pleased to see the additional clarity provided for 2026/27, which will help councils to plan more confidently for the future. However, the truth remains that the funding available for adult social care is still far from enough to meet the level of need in our communities, something clearly shown in the significant overspends highlighted in our surveys.
“With major change expected through the Fair Funding Review 2.0 and the transitional arrangements, it’s vital that Government publishes the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement as early as possible. Councils need the time and certainty to understand what these changes will mean for the people who depend on adult social care every day.”
Image depicts the ADASS logo.