On Friday the cabinet met to discuss financial plans for the next couple of years. County Treasurer Carolyn Williamson warned that the County is 'facing changes of an unprecedented scale.'
This decision has been made after it was revealed the Council is facing a funding gap of £55 million. Job cuts will take place and final redundancies are expected to be announced by the end of March. Overall 1,171 members of council staff will lose their jobs. Several departments will be affected, losses include;
- 458 from children's services
- 378 from adult services
- 111 from environmental services
Hampshire County Council Chief Executive Andrew Smith said: "The impact on senior management will be significant."
Cabinet member Councillor Mel Kendal believes that most cuts will be part of the natural cycle. He said: "Most people that will be leaving will be senior management, people towards the end of their careers anyway. They will be offered voluntary redundancy and that will cover most of the posts. Obviously we will still have to make some other redundancies, and that is always sad. We think though, that these are skilled individuals who will hopefully be able to find new jobs with out to much difficulty."
The number of people that need adult services has increased, and although the department faces heavy lay-offs Councillor Ken Thornber, Leader of Hampshire County Council stressed: "In the midst of cuts, we will still care for the vulnerable."
There was some good news for Hampshire residents, it was confirmed that council tax will not increase. “The people of Hampshire will not be asked to pay more for council tax next year, which I feel is quite an achievement.” said Councillor Thornber.
By Kieran Brannigan and Sam Homewood
Hampshire County Council's plan to cut 458 jobs from Children's Services means that many Sure Start centres could close for good.
The centres provide educational and healthcare support for pre-school children and their parents.
“I'd spend my whole week there if I didn't have other commitments.”
“To a lot of people I've met through the Sure Start system these places are vital.”
“Single mothers rely on the Sure Start system. It is a big part of their life, it is very important for them.” Ayisha Tryhorn, a mother from Shirley.
“I am just one of many parents upset at the possible closure of my children's centre. We are angry at the prospect that our centre may have to merge with another, or at worst close.”
“People rely on this service, it's been there for me through some difficult times. It's really important to us.” Tracey Watts, from Holbury, near Southampton.
“It has really helped me meet new parents and friends. I'd be really upset if it had to close.” Chloe Phillips, also of Holbury.
By Kieran Brannigan and Sam Homewood
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