“A step in the right direction”: Mayor Woodley responds to new government funding

Caroline Woodley, the Mayor of Hackney, has welcomed confirmation of the Local Government Finance Settlement 2025/26, whilst highlighting it means the borough still faces tough decisions next year.

Any extra funding we receive is incredibly welcome, so I thank the government for confirming next year’s financial settlement. I am pleased to see this government recognises the impact of 14 years of austerity imposed by the previous administration, and that Hackney is set to benefit from the new ‘Recovery Grant’. The extra funding announced to help tackle homelessness and adults and children's social care will also help, though we have to recognise this is not a permanent fix to what is a nationwide problem and the Council will remain under extreme financial pressure. The previously announced increase in funding towards special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will also help, and will support the ambitious plans we have in Hackney. 

“Since the new government took office we have seen a series of extremely positive steps towards improving relations between central and local government. I’m pleased to see that councils are recognised as one of the most effective and cost efficient public services, as our success is crucial for the country.

“While the funding and certainty for next year is a strong step in the right direction, it still doesn’t cover what we need to address the increasing demand for our services, particularly in the area of housing needs. We will continue to share information on what we are finding is driving this locally, and work together with our neighbours to inform and support the government to resolve the national crises of the rising costs of social care and homelessness.

Caroline Woodley, Mayor of Hackney