Vulnerable young people and low income families suffer as grants are axed

Councillors unanimously approved an amended budget at an extra-ordinary meeting in Runcorn Town Hall last week.

Vulnerable teenagers, low income families, children in care, mentally ill youngsters, victims of crime and domestic violence and young people suffering drug and alcohol misuse will be hit by the loss of funding.

Council leader, Clr Rob Polhill, now fears further coalition cuts of up to £15 million a year for the next three years could have a more devastating impact on the local community.

He said: “This is absolutely unprecedented.

“Halton, which is a deprived community is bearing the brunt of these cuts.

“We have taken a bigger hit than many other areas. It is totally unfair and a worry for us.

“We are under no illusion, services will suffer.”

Halton has lost £17.09 per head, more than double the national average of £8.75.

The loss of £601,379, allocated to Halton as one of the most deprived areas, means schemes to tackle teenage pregancies, domestic violence and anti-social behaviour will be cut.

Counselling and care for children and young people with mental health lost £50,000.

Bridge maintenence work and transport schemes have been cut by £880,000.

Engineering schemes to tackle accident blackspots and road safety projects have lost £165,000.

A £349,709 grant to support pupils’ attendance and behaviour has been severed.

Clr Mike Houghton, board member for corporate services, told councillors: “It is with a sad heart and deep regret that I move the recommendation.

“These cuts are a direct consequence of the coalition Government’s cut in grants.

“They have been imposed because of political dogma not economic necessity.

“Where Cameron and Osborne have been most successful is in frightening people and vulnerable people in particular.

“This coalition Government is hitting those areas with the greatest deprivation, in greatest need, harder than the rich.”