Tag: local government

Over £16 Billion needed in the Scottish Budget to protect essential services, COSLA Warns

COSLA is urging the Scottish Government to provide a £16 billion boost in revenue in the Scottish Budget, to secure fair and sustainable funding for councils.

A demand for a £844 million general capital settlement has also been requested, plus a restoration of the Affordable Housing Supply Programme to £955 million, to maintain, repair, expand and secure the future of Council estates.

COSLA has today launched a lobbying campaign urging the Scottish Government to use the upcoming Scottish Budget to provide councils with the fair, sustainable and multi-year funding needed to protect essential local services.

The campaign – ‘Strong Councils, Strong Communities’ – highlights growing pressures facing local government and the very real consequences of continued underfunding for communities across Scotland. The financial pressures in social care and housing are two key areas COSLA are asking the Scottish Government to specifically address in their upcoming budget.

COSLA warns that without urgent action in January’s Budget, councils will be unable to maintain essential services such as social care, education, housing support, roads, and community safety.

COSLA Resources Spokesperson, Councillor Ricky Bell, said: “Scotland’s councils deliver the services that people rely on every single day — from caring for older and vulnerable people to keeping schools open, streets safe and communities thriving. Councils are facing greater demand than ever and are required to do more with significantly less. This is unsustainable.

“The upcoming Scottish Budget is a pivotal moment. The Scottish Government must deliver a settlement that matches the scale of the challenge. Without fair funding, communities will see services reduced and inequalities deepen, and we will struggle to meet national targets in key areas such as child poverty, housing, and net zero”

This year, councils continue to face rising inflation, increasing demand for services, and the continued impact of workforce pressures across social care and education. COSLA’s analysis shows that even maintaining current services requires substantial additional investment.

As a fair and sustainable overall financial settlement COSLA’s key asks from the campaign include:

  • An immediate £750m investment in social care.
  • Flexibility for councils to make local decisions that respond to community needs.
  • Recognition of local government as an equal partner in delivering national priorities and tackling inequalities.

COSLA President, Councillor Shona Morrison, added: “Councils work tirelessly to deliver for Scotland’s communities, however, continued pressure on resources makes this increasingly challenging.

“This is about safeguarding what matters most, support for the most vulnerable, opportunities for young people, support for families, and safe, thriving communities. We hope the Budget will reflect the vital role Local Government plays in Scotland’s public services.”

Budget-Lobbying-Campaign-2025-Final-Version-25-12-08Download

COSLA President says rebuilding trust in politics starts with stronger local voices

THE PRESIDENT of the body representing Scotland’s 32 councils has urged a room of leading political figures to rebuild trust by giving people and places a stronger voice in how decisions are made locally.

Speaking at the COSLA Annual Conference in St Andrews this week, Councillor Shona Morrison used her opening address to urge political leaders to back a bold, long-term vision for local democracy – one that gives communities the powers, trust, and resources they need to thrive.

The call comes at the first major event following the launch of COSLA’s manifesto, which acknowledges 50 years of the organisation and sets out a clear roadmap for strengthening local government and empowering communities across Scotland.

In introducing the overarching theme of the event, “The Future of Localism”, Councillor Morrison told delegates: “Localism means trusting communities, empowering councils and rejecting unnecessary centralisation. It means recognising that Scotland’s strength lies in its diversity, urban, rural, island – and that one-size-fits-all solutions rarely work.

“It means giving councils the powers and resources to empower those voices in their communities, so that decisions are shaped together, with local knowledge at the heart of every choice.”

Marking COSLA’s 50th anniversary, the 2025 Conference brings together leaders from across local government, business, academia and public life.

The event features high-profile contributions from First Minister John Swinney MSP, Douglas Alexander MP, and Alastair Campbell, alongside figures such as Olympic champion Duncan Scott OBE, David Duke MBE, and Professor Sir Gregor Smith, Chief Medical Officer for Scotland.

Building on the momentum of the manifesto, the President reiterated COSLA’s key asks of all political parties ahead of the 2026 election:

  • A fair, multi-year financial settlement to protect and plan local services.
    Empowerment of local democracy, ensuring decisions are taken as close as possible to communities.
  • A valued workforce, recognising the essential role of council staff in delivering public services.
  • Action for future generations, embedding children’s rights and opportunities at the centre of policy-making.
  • Investment in thriving and cohesive communities, to tackle inequality and strengthen local resilience.
  • Support for thriving places, through sustainable economic growth, housing and transport investment, and a just transition to net zero.

COSLA’s manifesto, launched last month, outlines what the organisation describes as a “turning point” in the relationship between national and local government. It calls for full implementation of the Verity House Agreement, reform of local taxation, and new powers for councils to make local choices based on local priorities.

Councillor Morrison added: “The manifesto is about ensuring we set our own agenda, rather than merely responding to that of others. COSLA is a voice of influence, and we want it to be heard strongly by those seeking parliamentary election and those that wish to form the next Scottish Government.

“It calls for a relationship between local and national government that is based on trust, respect, and parity of esteem. We are asking those who make up the next Scottish Government to empower local democracy and our communities. Decisions must be taken as close to communities as possible.

“Our asks are not optional, they are essential if Scotland is to thrive. We want to work constructively with all parties, but we will not accept anything less than fairness and the power to act for our communities.”

Taking place in St Andrews, The COSLA Annual Conference, sponsored by CCLA, took place over two days with plenary sessions, panels, and fringe discussions on topics including care reform, climate leadership, community cohesion, and online life for future generations.

#COSLA25

COSLA-Manifesto-2026v2Download

SNP MSP welcomes Edinburgh teachers accepting two-year pay deal

SNP MSP Gordon Macdonald has welcomed news that teachers across Edinburgh have accepted a two-year pay offer which ensures that Scotland’s classroom teachers will remain the best paid in the UK. 

The Teachers’ Panel of the Scottish Negotiating Committee for Teachers has this week accepted the offer tabled by local authorities’ umbrella body Cosla. The terms include a 4% pay increase in 2025/26 followed by an additional 0.25% in April and 3.25% next August. 

The SNP in government continues to prioritise investment in our children and young people’s education, investing £4.3 billion into Scotland’s education system in 2025-26. 

Thanks to this investment, Scotland has a higher spending per pupil than any other devolved UK nation and has the lowest pupil to teacher ratios. 

Local SNP MSP Gordon Macdonald said: “I am pleased that teachers across the city have accepted this pay offer, which will ensure that Scottish teachers on the main-grade scale will continue to be the best paid in the UK. 

“By investing in children and young people’s education, the SNP is helping to break the poverty-related cycle. 

“Under this SNP government, the poverty-related gap for young people leaving school and going on to a positive destination has reduced by 60 per cent since 2009 – narrowing at all three key qualification levels. 

“I am delighted that our incredible teachers will continue to be well-paid for the fantastic job they do in improving the lives of young people both in Edinburgh Pentlands and the wider city.”

COSLA is pleased to note that the Scottish Negotiating Committee for Teachers (SNCT) panel have accepted a two-year pay award.

COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson, Councillor Katie Hagmann welcomed the news, commenting: “The award secures pay uplifts for Scottish Teachers and associated professionals for the period 1st August 2025 to 31st July 2027.”

The latest pay agreement means Scotland’s Teachers will receive:

  • A 4% increase from 1/8/25 rising to 4.25% on 1/4/26
  • A 3.25% increase on 1/8/26

Councillor Hagmann continued: “Councils will now work to implement the first uplift over the next weeks as payroll schedules allow.”

Scottish Secretary: Power to the People!

It is time for a new crusade for devolution within Scotland, Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander will say today

In a speech to council leaders, the Secretary of State for Scotland will make clear that there is no route to a decent and prosperous Scotland without strong and effective councils. And to ensure that, the Scottish Government must properly devolve funding and powers to Scotland’s local authorities.

Mr Alexander will set out how the promise of devolution has not been delivered, with the Scottish Government deprioritising councils for funding, and centralising powers at Holyrood.

Twenty five years on from the advent of devolution, Mr Alexander will call for a new crusade for devolution within Scotland, for a proper debate on the delivery of powers from Holyrood to the regions and communities of Scotland.

Mr Alexander is expected to say: “During recent decades, Scottish local government has been systematically deprioritised for funding. Scotland’s local authorities have watched their powers being pulled to Holyrood rather than further devolved to local communities.

“There has never been a point where councils have been so persistently on the defensive – fighting cuts on an annual basis in order to defend an ever-shrinking core of services from further erosion.

“The Scottish Parliament should have heralded a new era of powers, esteem and resource – not just for Scotland, but also for Scottish local government. And yet the reality is that Scottish local government has been systematically starved of funds over the last two decades. 

“At exactly the same time as these funding cuts we have also seen the systematic centralisation of decision-making in Holyrood, including on policing and fire and rescue. At the same time the Scottish Government has constrained council tax powers via national freezes and caps. 

“It is now time for a new crusade for devolution within Scotland, to reach back to the core principles upon which our parliament was founded and restore the values of devolution. We must allow the Scottish Parliament to realise its potential to deliver change and reform for the people of Scotland. And Scotland’s local authorities, regardless of party allegiance, must be at the forefront of that cause.”

Mr Alexander will make clear this debate must be guided by the principle that powers are best exercised as close as possible to the people, rather than hoarded centrally, to the exclusion of local decision-making and accountability.

Top councillors in Scotland recognised at annual Cllr Awards

The top councillors from across Scotland have been recognised at the 2025 LGIU & CCLA Cllr Awards which took place last night at Glasgow’s City Chambers.

These are the only national awards dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary work of councillors in Scotland. No Edinburgh councillors received awards this year.

The 2025 winners are:

Read more about the winners here.

This year’s competition was extremely tight with nominations received across five categories that celebrate the wide-ranging work of councillors. From championing residents’ interests to leading innovation in public services, councillors play a crucial role in shaping communities and improving lives, dedicating their time and energy to what is often a voluntary, unpaid role.

Winners were chosen by a judging panel of senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector. These important Awards – a staple in the local government calendar –  are made possible thanks to the generous support of founding partner CCLA.

Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) said: “Councillors work tirelessly to support their communities and drive change.

“These awards are about celebrating the often unseen but hugely important contribution councillors make every day. This year’s winners are a real testament to the dedication, creativity and leadership shown by councillors across Scotland.”

Lee Jagger, Local Government Relationship Manager, CCLA said: “Councillors sit at the heart of our communities, and these awards are a chance to spotlight the meaningful, real-world difference they deliver every day.

“Their dedication improves lives in countless, practical ways. At a time when councils are navigating extraordinary pressures, the Cllr Awards are a powerful reminder of just how essential our councillors and councils are.”

COSLA launch Local Government Promise Annual Report 2025

COSLA has launched the ‘Local Government Promise Annual Report 2025.’

2025 marks the halfway point in Scotland’s journey to Keep The Promise – a commitment made in response to the Independent Care Review to transform the lives of babies, children and young people experiencing care by 2030.

This milestone encourages reflection on the achievements over the last 5 years, as well as the barriers to change and what needs to happen next.

Councillor Tony Buchanan, COSLA’s Children and Young People spokesperson, commented: “2025 marks a key milestone in Scotland’s journey to Keep The Promise. As we reach the halfway point, this report offers a powerful reflection on both the achievements and the realities of delivering change.

“Local Government remains deeply committed to supporting babies, children, young people and families.

“Across Scotland, councils are delivering vital services shaped by strong relationships with local communities and a clear understanding of their needs.

“But pressures on the system, including workforce shortages, financial constraints, and complex policy demands, are real. Despite this, councils continue to lead with dedication and innovation.

“We stand firmly behind our local teams and the communities they serve. To truly keep the promise, ambition must be matched by investment, and policy must be realistic and coherent. Progress has been made, but we must go further and faster.“

Download The Promise – Annual Report 2025 PDF, 389.28 KB

COSLA calls for urgent action to address Scotland’s crisis in social care

Councils Leaders have issued a stark warning about the growing crisis in social care, urging the need for social care funding to be a clear and focused national priority.

Following a meeting of Council Leaders, COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson Councillor Paul Kelly said: ‘Social care underpins everything we value most within our communities – from dignity in later life, supporting people in their unpaid caring roles, to enabling people to live independently and participate fully in society.

“Local Government has consistently prioritised social care, protecting budgets where possible and working tirelessly to maintain services despite severe and well-evidenced financial pressures.

“But Local Government cannot do this alone. Demand is increasing, costs are rising, and the workforce is under immense strain. Without fair and sustainable funding, we risk the viability of services that people rely on every single day.

“Local Government is doing everything possible to sustain vital care and support services, but without urgent investment from Scottish Government to enable us to commission and deliver more care, the system is at breaking point. That is why as part of COSLA’s manifesto we are calling on the next Scottish Government to invest £750m into social care services.

“We urge a national focus on addressing the workforce and financial crisis social care is experiencing, to ensure those who need support are not left without the help they need to live fulfilling lives.”

COSLA, Scottish Government, care providers, and system leaders had been meeting in the first half of 2025 as part of the jointly convened Financial Viability Response Group to address risks and impacts of funding challenges across the health and social care sector.

Cllr Kelly continued: ‘It is crucial that we reconvene the social care Financial Viability Response Group immediately.  

“We urge the Scottish Government to engage with us and our valued partners in the third and independent sector through the work of the Group to address the financial and workforce crisis in social care.”

COSLA’s 2026 Manifesto calls for sustainable finance for local services, including calling for an additional investment of £750m for social care: 

COSLA-Manifesto-2026v2 (1)Download

https://www.cosla.gov.uk/manifesto

Audit Scotland recently published a briefing on Local Government budgets for 25/26, which reported a projected revenue budget gap in 26/27 for 31 councils of £528m.

COSLA launches Holyrood Election 2026 Manifesto

For our communities to live well locally, councils are essential. Councils provide safer communities, housing, roads and transportation, education, social work and social care, environmental health, trading standards, mental health services, advice services, employability, recycling and waste services, libraries, leisure facilities and many more vital services that support and create opportunities for every community in Scotland.

This manifesto sets out what local government needs from Scottish Government to continue to serve local communities and enable us all to live well locally.

Our key asks are grouped under six priority areas, divided into ‘enabling priorities’ focusing on key levers at our disposal (finance, workforce and democratic powers) which enable delivery of our ‘outcomes-focused priorities’ (future generations, thriving places and thriving communities).

We need Scottish Government to work together with local government, as equal partners, to deliver lasting change and improve outcomes.

COSLA-Manifesto-2026v2Download

OOR BILLY

BILLY FITZPATRICK HAS DIED AFTER A PERIOD OF ILL HEALTH

Billy’s family posted this very sad news on Facebook yesterday:

This morning he passed away at the Western General surrounded by loves ones.

He asked that friends, family, acquaintances, people from his beloved North Edinburgh, and old comrades were given the news when the time came, and in his own words he had a good kick at the baw.

When funeral arrangements are made we’ll update again, thanks x

A proud trade unionist and a popular local councillor who fought for his community, Billy went on to share his negotiating skills and vast experience when he retired from front-line party politics.

Billy supported a number of important community projects, including Granton Information Centre, Royston Wardieburn Community Centre (he chaired both of these long-established community organisations) and North Edinburgh Arts.

Proud ‘Roystoner’ Billy featured in the recent ‘Quiet Heroes‘ exhibition at Madelvic House granton:hub.

Billy wasn’t always so quiet – it’s fair to say that oor Billy could be passionate, fiery even, and he had his fair share of brushes with the Labour Party hierarchy! – but Royston’s very own Quiet Hero fought North Edinburgh’s corner loyally for over forty years.

A genuine working class community stalwart, they just don’t make politicians like Billy Fitzpatrick any more. And our communities, our cities and our country are all the poorer for that.

Farewell, Billy, my dear old Comrade. We shared many good times together, and some dreadful ones too. Throughout all that time, you never changed: loyal, steadfast and honest to the very end.

How we will miss you.

Helping Ukrainian communities to thrive in Scotland

Funding to support local councils and the third sector

A funding package to support Ukrainian communities and culture in Scotland to flourish has been announced by Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart.

Funding of over £600,000 will support third sector organisations working to support displaced Ukrainians, including community and cultural activities, while a further £3.5m funding for local authorities and COSLA will support displaced Ukrainians, as well as refugees and people seeking asylum, to settle into communities. 

The funding was announced at an event hosted by COSLA, marking a visit to Scotland by a civic delegation of mayors from Ukraine.

Speaking ahead of the event, Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “Scotland stands in unwavering solidarity with Ukraine, as it has since Russia’s illegal invasion in 2022.

“More than 28,000 displaced Ukrainians with a Scottish-sponsored visa have arrived in the UK, and we are helping people rebuild their lives here.

“Many of those who left Ukraine shortly after the war outbreak have now been in Scotland for several years, forming thriving Ukrainian communities right across the country. We want those communities to flourish, and this funding will support cultural and social activities and events to strengthen. It will also support services to help people recover from the trauma of fleeing war.

“I’m very pleased to be announcing this funding at the same time as a visit from the Ukrainian rebirth delegation, and I look forward to exploring further opportunities for connection and partnership between Scotland and Ukraine.”

COSLA Community Wellbeing Spokesperson Councillor Maureen Chalmers said: “COSLA is so very pleased to welcome colleagues from Local Government in Ukraine to Verity House today.

“We are also delighted to be working with Scottish Government to host this event, coming together to show our commitment across government in Scotland.

“COSLA has expressed full support and solidarity to the Ukrainian people and our peers in local and regional government, standing ready to support those affected and play a very active part in Ukrainian refugee resettlement.

“COSLA welcomes Scottish Government’s announcement of the continuation of £3.4m resettlement funding for Local Authorities for 2025-26. This funding will play an important role in enabling councils’ ongoing work supporting the integration of Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s illegal war, as well as other people seeking protection in this country.

“We are also very grateful for confirmation of continued funding for COSLA to support the work that we do with our member councils and with Scottish Government in relation to the integration of people displaced from Ukraine, as well as others who are seeking sanctuary here and migrants who are at risk of destitution.”

Funding for Ukrainian communities is as follows:

Third sector funding
AUGB Edinburgh£ 46,786.58
AUGB Glasgow£ 50,820.07
AUGB Dundee£ 52,393.35		£150,000
Barnardo’s£ 50,000
EVOC£ 65,750
Positive Action in Housing£ 42,660
The Welcoming£ 76,500
Ukrainian Community Group South Ayrshire£ 25,000
Scottish Refugee Council£ 200,000
Total third sector funding:£ 609,910
Local authority support 
Funding to support local authority resettlement support£ 3,400,000
Funding for COSLA£ 175,400

This funding is part of a broader package of funding this financial year, which will support Ukrainians and displaced people from all backgrounds settle into life in Scotland.