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Suffolk County Council warns of 'tough choices' as rising care costs stretch council budget

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Growing demand for adult and children's care services is forcing Suffolk County Council to make difficult decisions about its 2025-26 budget, as public funding fails to keep pace with increasing costs.

The big picture: Suffolk County Council is one of many local authorities across the country grappling with increasing financial pressures and difficult choices about service delivery.

Why it matters: The funding challenges could affect:

  • Essential care services for adults and children

  • Other council services that may face cuts

  • Local Council Tax rates

  • The council's ability to meet growing demand

Entrance to Endeavour House, the Suffolk County Council office building
Endeavour House, IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The challenge: Local authorities face a complex financial balancing act:

  • Service demand is rising annually

  • Public funding isn't matching increased costs

  • Councils have limited ways to increase budgets and must choose between service cuts or tax rises

What they're saying: “The demand for council services, particularly adult and children’s care, is rising every year," said Cllr Richard Smith, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance.

He explains, "While Suffolk County Council has managed its finances well for many years, public funding has not kept pace.

"We must prepare to navigate another challenging budget, which will require new approaches and tough choices."

What's next: Public consultation runs until 16 December 2024, with the final budget to be set in February 2025. Feedback from residents, businesses, and community organisations will inform budget decisions, so make sure you participate at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/2025_26_budget.

The bottom line: The council is awaiting confirmation of additional government funding but must plan its budget before knowing the exact amount Suffolk will receive.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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