To receive and consider the Financial Strategy 2026/27 - 2030/31, to be known in future as “Draft 2026/27 General Fund budgets and Medium Term Financial Plan 2026-2031”.

REPORT TO FOLLOW

The Interim Finance Director introduced the report which provided an updated position on the draft 2026/27 General Fund budgets and Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026/27 – 2030/31 since the meeting of Cabinet on 21st January 2026.

Members highlighted the importance of managing future demand, particularly in adult and children’s social care, and stressed the need for a stronger preventative approach across the Council and its partners.

Concern was expressed about the long?term sustainability of the Council’s finances in light of rising demand, inflationary pressures and uncertainty in future funding. Members noted the risks associated with reliance on Exceptional Financial Support, including uncertainty around timing and any conditions that may be attached.

The Committee emphasised that prevention and partnership working would be essential to reducing demand over the medium to long term, while recognising current capacity constraints and operational pressures.

Members acknowledged that stabilising the budget in 2026/27 would be necessary before longer?term transformation and demand?reduction ambitions could be fully realised.