Wrexham’s council leader highlights rising social care costs as a major concern for the upcoming budget, impacting local services.
Wrexham: The council leader recently updated the scrutiny committee on budget issues. He pointed out that social care costs are the biggest worry for 2025/26.
The Welsh Government plans to make children’s social care not-for-profit by April 2026. This change is seen as good for the future but may cause private services to withdraw now.
Wrexham’s social care budget is about £100 million, with £70 million from private partners. The council leader warned of financial challenges before seeing benefits from the changes.
He mentioned meetings with North Wales council leaders and the First Minister about finances. The demand for social care is outpacing available funds.
He said, “We can manage now, but we can’t keep up with spending.” The council must continue placing children out of county or taking them into care when necessary.
He emphasized the importance of social care for vulnerable children. “It’s a safety net for those in need,” he added.
While he couldn’t share exact costs, he described them as “eyewatering.” The demand for services keeps increasing, and it’s a nationwide issue.
Over the past five years, Wrexham Council has added £25 million to social care budgets to meet rising needs.
The current budget report shows that social care savings of £3.6 million may not be achieved this year.
Councillor Rob Walsh, responsible for children’s services, noted that good preventative services are needed to slow the flow of children into care.
He mentioned ongoing efforts to improve services, but results will take time. The not-for-profit plans will add pressure on the council.
In the short term, the council is working to provide care closer to home and reduce expensive agency costs.
However, progress in one area often leads to challenges in another, making it feel like firefighting.
He stressed that social care is a statutory service, and cuts could endanger vulnerable children.
One initiative is a new online portal to help families find the right services. This aims to prevent frustration and ensure timely support.
He remains hopeful about meeting savings targets, as they set realistic goals last year.
