Issue - meetings

The report considers the end of year position for the DSG budget 2021-22 at a net in-year deficit of £12.5 million.  This is against a budgeted deficit of £9.6 million.

The additional £2.9 million is largely the result of the high needs expenditure increasing further, including a £0.9 million provision for an ongoing legal case. In addition, there has been a net overspend on the early years funding formula of £0.4 million.

The accumulated deficit has grown as a result from £7.9 million to £20.3 million at March 2022, with this required to be carried forward and recovered from future DSG allocations.

The Assistant Chief Finance Officer presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The Forum received an update on the DSG financial position.  The report considered the end of year position for the DSG budget 2021-22 at a net in-year deficit of £12.5 million.  This is against a budgeted deficit of £9.6 million.

It was acknowledged that responses to central consultation was often quite low, so members were encouraged to read and participate as widely as possible.

RESOLVED that the Forum noted the contents of the report.

Voting: nem.con