Liberal Democrats to call for fair funding for local government after Reeves Budget leaves councils “on life support”

Oldham Liberal Democrats used the meeting of Full Council [10/12/2025] to call for fair funding for local councils.  The Liberal Democrat motion highlights the pressures that rising demand for social care, special educational needs services and housing support are placing on the councils’ finances.

Liberal Democrat Group Deputy Leader councillor Sam Al-Hamdani argues that the Labour Government’s recent budget has done little to help.

Councillor Al-Hamdani said, “Oldham Council faces a deficit of almost £21 million.  While some additional funding was announced by the Government in the budget, it goes nowhere near to plugging the gap.  We need proper funding reform so that councils can actually deliver the services people expect, instead of being left on life support by a government that promised change.”

Councillor Garth Harkness – who will second the motion – says that residents are left paying more for less, as services like park maintenance and road repairs are cut to fund social care. 

Councillor Harkness said: “People expect the council to fund the basics.  Things like road repairs, drain clearing, looking after our parks and green spaces.  But in reality, most of the money goes on social care and children’s services.  These are essential services but they should be funded nationally, not left needing huge council tax rises every year.”