Labour council accuses minister of ‘moral bankruptcy’ over social care dispute

Hartlepool's Labour council has strongly criticized Housing Secretary Steve Reed over a dispute regarding social care funding. The council sought £3 million to address the rising costs of social care, as Hartlepool has one of the highest rates of children in care in England. Council leaders claim Reed dismissed their request, stating the government wouldn't "reward" councils with high numbers of children in care. The council accuses Reed of "moral bankruptcy" and indifference towards vulnerable children. The government defends its position, stating it is reforming council funding to be fairer and has increased funding for local authorities, including a 33% increase for Hartlepool by 2028-29. Local leaders argue that significant funding increases are needed to prevent local authorities from bankruptcy.

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