Meridian funding News

The leader of Hastings Borough Council has said the planned reduction in the council's central government funding is 'close to our worst case scenario'. Hastings is due to have it's budget slashed by 14%. The average cut to other authorities in the south is 1.7%

“This is certainly close to our worst case scenario in terms of budget planning. Overall we have experienced a 50% reduction in government finance to run the council since 2010.

“I obviously hope our record will make us eligible for the new efficiency grant. After all we have restructured the council, including dispensing with the post of chief executive, we have signed a joint waste contract with other East Sussex councils and a joint parks and gardens contract and the two will save us £1 million a year."

• UK
• funding

Hastings Borough Council will receive the largest reduction in central government funding of any council in the south east. Hastings' pot of money will reduce in size by 14% - far more than the average of 1.7% for other authorities.

• UK
• funding

The money is being donated by the Freemason's Grand Charity which is giving money to 22 air ambulances across the country.

• Health
• Funding
• AIr Ambulance

People with learning difficulties in West Sussex are to benefit from thousands of pounds worth of grants handed out by their local council.

Over £73,000 is being split between 16 projects including new football training sessions and animation workshops for people with autism.

• Education
• Learning Difficulties
• Funding