Most councils are currently approaching the culmination of one of the most challenging budget-setting periods yet faced by the sector.

In an effort to balance the books and with few options to reduce costs, many have resorted to staff reductions. Leeds City Council is to shed 750 full-time equivalent posts by the end of 2024-25, Nottingham City Council has proposed cutting 550 jobs, and 180 posts will be made redundant at Kent CC.