Council cuts will affect services

There is a distinct lack of confidence from users that local public service organisations will continue to be able to deliver services in the current financial climate, according to a recent poll. Research, carried out by Ipsos MORI and commissioned by Zurich Municipal, has revealed that almost half of the 998 people sampled said they were not confident that councils would be able to respond to the challenges faced by extensive budget cuts. But there were indications that those sampled remained sympathetic with the position of local authorities. Just over a quarter – 26% – believed that individuals would be better placed to deliver services themselves – a key part of the government's Big Society agenda. "It is undeniable that tough times lie ahead for local councils and it is not surprising that the British public is concerned. Deciding where and what to cut, while ensuring that those most in need receive vital services, will undoubtedly be a huge challenge," says Andrew Jepp, head of local government at Zurich. "However, as not many of the public were willing to take on the task themselves, their concern appears to stem from a recognition of just how great the risks in this area are – rather than the belief that our local authorities are underprepared or that local communities are better placed to do the job. "Whatever shape local service delivery takes in the future, with it will come a wealth of risks and challenges. It is crucial these are fully understood before decisions are made as to who takes responsibility for delivery – whether that is local authorities or local communities." The full research will form part of a November report analysing risk in public services.