Budget

It's Time to Break the Piggy Bank: North Somerset Needs Your Input!

Got thoughts about North Somerset's budget? Now's your chance to shape the future! 👛💸

Attention North Somerset residents! This is your opportunity to make your voice heard regarding the council's budget priorities for 2024. North Somerset Council is inviting locals to engage in several budget development sessions, so make sure to grab a seat and have your say. It's not just about numbers and spreadsheets – it’s about what really matters to you and your community. Whether you’re keen on improving parks, boosting school funding, or preserving essential services, your feedback can play a pivotal role in shaping these financial decisions.

For instance, Yasmin, a North Somerset local, shared her story about the challenges of living on a £21,500 salary. Despite the increase in living costs, she struggles to qualify for government benefits like Child Benefit, tax-free childcare, or even 30 hours of free childcare due to her partner’s earnings of £150,000. Her story highlights how financial systems can create barriers for those on lower wages – a topic that the council may need to address in their budgeting priorities this year.

The council's budget isn’t just an administrative task; it reflects the hopes and aspirations of communities across North Somerset. So, if you're passionate about issues that affect daily lives, now’s the time to voice your priorities. It’s an excellent chance to push for changes that matter, and every opinion counts, no matter how small. Remember, budgets aren’t just explanations of how money is spent; they're blueprints of our shared future!

As we approach the decision-making process, it’s important to underline how crucial community involvement is in these discussions. Engaging with your local representatives and contributing your thoughts can be the difference between a budget that serves only a few and one that benefits the entire community. Don’t miss out on this chance to steer the direction of North Somerset’s financial decisions for the upcoming year!

Interestingly, did you know that local councils in the UK raised £55 billion through council tax in 2020 alone? This funding not only supports essential local services but also showcases the importance of effective budget allocation. And let's not forget that during the last fiscal year, 32% of families described themselves as 'just managing' or 'struggling' financially. With voices like Yasmin's in the mix, we hope to steer the ship towards a more inclusive and community-driven budget plan.