New social work post approved in Highlands

A new management post costing £25,000 to set up and run is to be created to try to tackle a projected £3.4m overspend in a social work budget.

Officials at Highland Council had said it must “spend to save” and the temporary appointment would lead to improved finances and service delivery.

The post of Social Work chief operating officer was approved by councillors.

Strains on funds include providing services to people with learning difficulties and older people.

In a paper to councillors, officials said the social work budget was “under severe pressure”.