The Council achieved £13.2 million in planned savings while actively managing cost pressures, particularly in adult social care, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), home-to-school transport and temporary accommodation.

The final report, which will be presented to Cabinet on 21 May 2026, shows a balanced outturn position for the financial year ended 31 March 2026. This was delivered through robust control of expenditure, delivery of planned savings and targeted recovery actions throughout the year - a clear demonstration of prudent financial stewardship in a challenging environment.

Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, Cllr Pete Stoddart, said:

“Once again, we have delivered a balanced budget at a time of significant financial challenge for local government. This reflects the strength of our financial management, the hard work of services to control spending and our continued focus on delivering savings. During 2025/26, the council delivered £13.2 million of savings while at the same time delivering key services to residents and investing in Herefordshire’s future. While we continue to face growing demand and cost pressures, particularly in social care and SEND services, this report shows we are managing these challenges responsibly. By managing costs and protecting our financial resilience, we are putting the council in a stronger position for the years ahead.”

The report will be considered by Cabinet on 21 May 2026.