Wokingham, 11 September 2025 — Wokingham Borough leaders say proposed national changes to the way councils are funded could force the borough into “very tough decisions” unless a protective funding floor is added to the plans. The council warns that, without safeguards, local services could be reduced and charges may rise.
What’s changing
- Under consultation proposals, Wokingham estimates that close to £50 million raised locally could be redistributed to other areas over three years.1
- The borough’s savings challenge could rise from just over £10 million to more than £30 million without mitigations.1
- The council is urging a minimum annual uplift — a 4% “funding floor” — for all social-care authorities.2
What the council says
Cllr Stephen Conway, Leader of Wokingham Borough Council: “We understand the government’s desire to redistribute funding but the way they are proposing to do it is very damaging… We are proposing a simple fix: set a ‘floor’ — a minimum annual funding increase that all councils receive.”1
Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, Executive Member for Finance: “We have had regular real-term reductions in our funding and have already saved millions… But if the settlement goes ahead as planned, we would be hit very hard, and residents would notice changes.”1
Local reaction
Clive Jones, MP for Wokingham: “The three-year settlement is welcome, but certainly not one where we are losing a significant amount… I will continue to make the case for fairer funding.”3
Pauline Jorgensen, Leader of the Conservative group: “This settlement is an outrageous tax bombshell for working people in Wokingham Borough… threatening to strip our residents of much-needed services.”3
What might be at risk
- Adult & children’s social care capacity, including SEND support.2
- Potential increases to fees/charges or council tax to plug gaps.3
- Delays to community projects, road maintenance, public transport and leisure services.4
What Wokingham is asking for
- Adopt a 4% funding floor in the settlement.2
- Recognise higher local costs (staffing, living costs, care demand, SEND) in the formula.2
- Work with neighbouring authorities, businesses and community groups to lobby for change.2
