Dorset Council is forecasting an £8.1 million overspend as care costs and delayed savings increase pressure. Dorset Council is forecasting an £8.1 million overspend as care costs and delayed savings increase pressure.The predicted gap represents 1.7 per cent of its £466 million revenue budget, although officers say the position remains “manageable” if spending controls continue, with reserves potentially needed unless finances improve.Children’s Services and Adult Social Care are each forecasting £3 million overspends, while the Our Future Council transformation programme has a £4 million sav
Dorset Council is forecasting an £8.1 million overspend as care costs and delayed savings increase pressure.
The predicted gap represents 1.7 per cent of its £466 million revenue budget, although officers say the position remains “manageable” if spending controls continue, with reserves potentially needed unless finances improve.
Children’s Services and Adult Social Care are each forecasting £3 million overspends, while the Our Future Council transformation programme has a £4 million savings shortfall because some planned reductions have moved into future years.
At the end of July, 441 children were in care and 56 were in external residential placements, where average weekly costs have reached £6,870, an increase of 72 per cent since 2020.
Adult Social Care was supporting 4,542 people by July at an average of £930 each week, compared with budget assumptions covering 4,415 people at £887.
Planning services are forecasting an £829,000 overspend, while SEND transport expenditure is expected to approach £22.5 million and waste and recycling budgets are also under pressure.
Cabinet will also consider capital programme additions for Wimborne Community Sports Hub and phase 5 of environmental improvements at The Cobb in Lyme Regis.
