Staff and residents will lobby Somerset Council today (Wednesday) to oppose “devastating” cuts to jobs and public services, says UNISON.
The protest is taking place at 11am at Somerset Cricket Ground in Taunton as concern mounts over the council’s ongoing funding crisis and asset sell-offs aimed at balancing the budget, says the union.
Somerset Council was formed in 2023, with promises to strengthen local government services in the county. However, the creation of the unitary authority has led to months of disruption, with little evidence of significant improvements to services for residents, says UNISON.
Instead, services previously run by district councils now face funding cuts to cover rising costs in adult and children’s social care, the union warns.
UNISON South West regional organiser Helen Eccles said: “Somerset Council must set out a comprehensive and sustainable plan for the future as a matter of urgency.
“The current wave of cuts and job losses will reduce essential services for residents without any guarantee the council will be able to avoid effective bankruptcy.
“Councillors must prioritise funding to protect essential services, jobs and build a resilient workforce to safeguard Somerset’s future.”
