Central Bedfordshire Council ups social care spend

A council in Bedfordshire has increased its spending on social care by 12%. Central Bedfordshire Council said grant income had allowed it to increase its funding despite it estimating at one stage it would reduce its budget by 11.4%.

A BBC survey obtained interim figures showing the council was planning to reduce its social care budget.

The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy said it was satisfied with the BBC’s survey method.

“All estimates may be subject to change as councils seek to deliver the best possible services,” a spokesman added.

The new figures show an increase in spending on social care from £84.2m to £95.4m.