In a concerning twist of fate, Liverpool City Council is facing bankruptcy as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

While nothing is certain yet, there are concerns that this will have an impact on the council’s ability to keep essential services for vulnerable people going. My team of community care solicitors have their  ears and eyes to the ground to understand what effect this will have on you.

If you’re worried about your care package, contact us. We are here to help you, no matter what your circumstances are.

Years of austerity and lacking funding

It’s no secret that local authorities have seen their funding cut over the last 10 years with a total cut of £436m in central government funding since 2010. This has had a real impact on the services that the local authorities have been able to provide

This doesn’t mean that people should suffer as a result, which is why it’s important that you know where you stand when it comes to your care and support.

With outgoings continuing while income and government funding is dwindling, the council is considering emergency spending controls to make up the shortfall. It could be, while it’s hard to say currently, that a Section 114 notice may be imposed.

This notice means that a local authority is struggling to balance its books. It could mean that there will be no more spending for the city, apart from statutory spending for vulnerable people such as social care.

This notice could also mean a reduction in the services, which would affect not only services to children and vulnerable adults but the social workers too, if they are faced with job losses.

Another question is whether this will be enough of a saving to stop the council going bust. The Liverpool Echo’s article suggests that this may already be a stretch, putting people who need the council’s support at a real risk.

What should I do?

It’s hard to predict what will happen, but it’s important to get in touch with someone if you’re worried about your care package in the first instance.

There is community care legal aid available, which means that you won’t be out of pocket if you need to get legal help.

We’re here, working from home, to support you. If circumstances change around your support or care, get in touch.

Whatever you are facing, we are here to help. Call us on 0151 601 5873 or email us on enquiry@broudiejacksoncanter.co.uk