Public consulted on Shropshire Council youth funding cuts

Shropshire Council’s proposals, as they stand, will see a number of areas lose out on funding completely.

The authority, which will be running its consultation until January 5, has stated it plans to reduce the budget for youth services by nearly 50 per cent, from £234,950 to £135,000, from next year.

Under the new proposals, money would be spent in six major areas of the county, which the council has identified as having the greatest need.

Shrewsbury, Market Drayton, Oswestry, Bridgnorth, Whitchurch and Ludlow will all still receive some funding.

Shrewsbury would receive £45,000, with the other five areas receiving £18,000 each.

But the 12 other local joint committee (LJC) areas – such as Wem and Shawbury, Ellesmere, Shifnal and Sheriffhales, Albrighton, and Bayston Hill – which have previously received funding will lose out on financial support completely, under the plans.

Nick Bardsley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for children’s services, said the changes were being considered because of the authority’s shortage of money.

He said: “Well-publicised budget pressures mean we have to look at how much money the council can put into the provision of youth activities, as well as how this reduced spending is allocated.

“Collectively, youth activities support young people’s well-being, personal and social development, and preparation for adulthood.

“We want to continue to encourage local youth partnerships, volunteer-run youth clubs and new funding opportunities that provide activities for young people whilst reducing the demand on our budgets.

“We have put forward our proposals but we want to know what people – especially young people – think.

“All views submitted will be carefully considered and will help to inform the council’s final decision.”

The council says the new funding formula is based on two measures.

They are the relative number of young people aged 10 to 19 years old, and young people in receipt of Free School Meals in a local joint committee area.

The proposed formula no longer makes specific reference to rurality.

Interested parties People can respond to the consultation on the Shropshire Council website at shropshire.gov.uk/get-involved