Risk for authorities' financial sustainability

摘要

The financial sustainability of Scottish councils is at risk without a longer-term settlement, the public spending watchdog has warned. In a new report, the Accounts Commission said COVID-19 had 'exacerbated and laid bare' the financial challenges councils are facing. It said a multi-year financial settlement was needed to address the challenges posed by the pandemic. The report found that while councils reacted quickly to provide innovative and sustained support to vulnerable people during the crisis the impact of disrupted council services on users was 'severe and unequal'. This included carers who lacked access to respite care, people with learning disabilities who were unable to access critical services and support, and those receiving care at home.