While we respond to the stark news set out in the Spending Review, I want to underline the increasing importance of county devolution – both to local areas and to central government. The chancellor pledged his commitment to the Northern Powerhouse and it can be seen that almost all city regions have now been offered devolution deals. If we are to achieve the ambition of a ‘devolution revolution’, then now is the time for government to focus on ensuring counties are also empowered to lead their areas through challenging times.

While devolution will not plug the social care funding gap faced by counties, it is a key piece of the puzzle. This has been recognised by the importance placed on public service reform and health devolution within county devolution bids. Demand-led pressures in County Council Network (CCN) areas are higher than elsewhere in the country, increasing the imperative for integration and prevention.