Yesterday at Executive Board we agreed proposals for our 2023/24 budget, endorsing ?29m of savings proposals which we are now seeking people?s views on.

Like all councils, businesses and households, the City Council?s finances have been impacted by the cost-of-living crisis created by soaring inflation, fuel and energy costs. A challenging employment market, increased demand for services and post-pandemic issues also add to financial pressures.

The proposals we agreed yesterday include raising Council Tax by the full 4.99% assumed under Government proposals - made up of 2.99% Council Tax and a further 2% precept specifically towards Adult Social Care costs.?

Since 2010 we have had to make over ?300m of savings to our budgets. The main Government grant for the council fell from ?126.8m a decade ago to ?26.7m this year - the equivalent of ?694 less for every Nottingham household ? meaning the Council Tax rise is something we have been forced to consider. It will sadly place a further burden on local people who we know are already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. However, 80% of Nottingham?s homes are in the two lowest Council Tax bands ? almost twice the national average ? meaning this increase would equate to between ?1.25 and ?1.46 more per week for the vast majority of city residents. Nottingham actually now has the 45^th lowest average council tax bill in the country.

Demand continues to grow for vital services such as adult social care, which now makes up over a third of the council?s entire budget. We have also looked in this budget process for ways in which we can become more efficient and effective with each pound we spend for Nottingham.

People can take part in our budget consultation by filling in the survey or finding out about consultation events here: https://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/engage-nottingham-hub/open-consultations/2023-2024-budget-consultation/

The council?s overall budget gap is ?32.2m, leaving a further ?3.2m of savings to be found by February. More information is available here:?https://www.mynottinghamnews.co.uk/consultation-launched-after-councillors-agree-29m-of-saving-proposals/

Christmas can be a very worrying time for many, as people struggle with increased financial pressures over the festive period. This can lead to stress that impacts our daily life and overall mental health.

If you have felt frustrated, worried or overwhelmed by bills, debt or your income - you are not alone. There are ways that you can take control over your finances such as creating a budget plan, prioritising your bills and seeing what help you may be eligible for.

Seeking support by talking to a trusted friend, family member or health professional about your financial concerns can also help.

If you are seriously struggling and need further support you can find a wide range of online resources and guidance visit www.asklion.co.uk/mentalhealth

Just a quick reminder that there are Christmas holiday activity sessions available for children who receive free school meals, which we know is a big support for struggling families at the moment.

The council has teamed up again with the Nottingham Forest Community Trust to offer the free clubs at various venues across the city, as well as making supermarket vouchers available which have been handed out by schools to eligible children before the end of term.

More details about the fun sessions and how to book is here?