Craig Mackinlay MP has joined Kent MPs in welcoming the news of an extra £3.9 million for social care in Kent, announced by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP.

The announcement follows a series of meetings between Kent MPs and Ministers, pressing for rising costs to be addressed in the forthcoming Local Government Finance Settlement. Cllr Paul Carter CBE, the Leader of Kent County Council, has also argued vigorously for a more generous funding settlement for the county.

In recognition of the growing need for Social Care, the Government is providing an extra £150m Social Care Grant to Local Authorities across England for 2018/19.

Kent County Council will benefit from its share of the £150m, in addition to being one of just 12 authorities piloting the retention of Business Rates, which is expected to generate £25 million next year.

Craig Mackinlay MP commented:

“I very much welcome the Local Government Finance Settlement for Kent and am pleased the Government listened to the representations Kent MPs made in recent weeks and months for extra central government funding for social care. This Settlement strikes a balance between giving Kent County Council additional freedom to ensure they can protect services for some of their most vulnerable residents, whilst protecting my South Thanet constituents against excessive Council Tax rises.”

Helen Whately MP said:

“This is good news for Kent. KCC has made impressive savings over the last few years, but with costs going up it’s getting harder and harder. I’m glad the Government has recognised that extra money is needed, particularly to meet growing social care needs. This should also help local hospitals with patients ready to go home but waiting for social care. Kent MPs got together and argued Kent’s case with the Secretary of State. I’m happy to see he’s listened and come up with the goods.”