To review performance for Quarter 2 2022/23 and the forecast budget outturn for the year.

To provide assurance that progress has been made towards delivery of the agreed revenue budget and service delivery targets, and that the reasons for major variances or potential under-performance are understood and are being addressed to the cabinet’s satisfaction.

The cabinet member finance, corporate services and planning introduced the report and highlighted that:

·       The current forecast was for a net overspend of £8.7m after the use of reserves and actions to redress overspends;

·       Provision of children’s social care continued to experienced increased demand and work continued to reduce placement costs;

·       Delivery of the capital programme had been impacted by covid and increased costs;

·       More than 90% of planned savings have been delivered or are on track;

·       More than 80% of performance targets have been delivered or are on track;

·       Costs in children’s services presented a serious risk for the council and the use of reserves to manage this was not a sustainable position.

Cabinet members highlighted key developments within their portfolio areas.

Group leaders gave the views and queries of their groups. The challenging financial situation was noted and in response to queries it was confirmed that recovery programmes were in place. The council was seeking to close the gap as much as possible however inflationary pressures were significant and there was no additional funding for councils from the government.

It was resolved that:

a)    Cabinet, having reviewed performance and financial forecast for year 2022/23, as set out in the appendices A-E, had not identified any additional actions to be considered to achieve future improvements.