Council supports over 2,600 vulnerable adults and children every day

Bedford Borough Council now supports more than 2,600 vulnerable adults and children every day. Since Mayor Dave Hodgson was elected the Council has an excellent track record of helping residents on low incomes, those with physical and mental health problems and those who are sleeping rough.

On top of the day-to-day care the Council provides to over 2,600 people, further support has been provided through the crises the Borough has faced in the last few years. One of the biggest challenges was the COVID pandemic, where Mayor Dave Hodgson made sure the Council was one of the first to set up a Community Hub and get CO2 monitors into every classroom. Last year the Council responded quickly to the Redwood Grove explosion and set up an emergency centre for those affected by the incident. Most recently, the Council has stepped up to support residents facing unprecedented cost of living rises by partnering with charity organisations and providing support to residents in need.

Mayor Dave said "With Councils now spending over 60% of the budget on supporting vulnerable adults and children it is important we get it right. I'm proud of the support we give through our 100% Council Tax Reduction Scheme which means our most vulnerable residents receive around £400 extra support each year than they would get under a 75% scheme. We prioritise the welfare and health of our children by offering free school meal vouchers over the school holidays. Our action to tackle rough sleeping now means we have one of the lowest numbers in the country.

"We are able to provide this level of support because of the good financial management we have shown year after year, despite challenges from extreme government cuts and record levels of inflation. We will always provide quality support for people who need it most."