Dorset is an attractive place and many people choose to retire here. 29% of our residents are aged over 65 (the national average is 19%).
While many older people are fit and well, a growing number of vulnerable older people and disabled residents need social care. Over 50% of the council’s budget is spent on providing these essential services. I’ve written to Government and continue to lobby via our MPs on the funding crisis we face in our health and social care system.
The second biggest part of the council’s budget is spent on looking after children in care and supporting children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. We are investing in the provision of more mainstream and special school places over the next five years. This will be better for children and will significantly reduce spending in the longer term.
The creation of Dorset Council in 2019 has so far saved over £25 million. We have put this back into our services and continue to reinvest further savings made as a contribution towards funding the growing demand.
Councillor Spencer Flower, Leader of Dorset Council
