While the graphs of doom were in evidence at last week's LGA conference, and the LGA itself set the tone with its bloodcurdling report on the future costs of social care, there was still a mood of cautious optimism among delegates.

Many councils appear to have made their cuts and factored in budget reductions for the rest of the current Spending Review. Some have used the 'burning platform' moment to instigate overdue workforce changes, management reductions and other back office costs.