The council’s budget proposals for 2024/25 build on our steady but sustained progress in fixing the council’s finances and getting Croydon back on track. The dire financial situation I inherited means we must continue to make tough decisions, but we are tightly managing all the parts within our control and predicting a balanced budget this year. Thanks to everyone who took part in our budget survey – while our choices are limited, we continue to spend most of our budget on the services you have told us matter most – protecting and caring for vulnerable children and adults. I continue to make the case with the government about a long-term solution for Croydon, so that we can become financially sustainable – and rest assured that I will continue to seek every opportunity for new investment in our borough. More on our budget plans here
The Croydon Safeguarding Children Partnership has published a review setting out new principles to help prevent children and young people from becoming involved with violence. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this important piece of work, especially the families who have lost loved ones and all those whose lives have been impacted. Their powerful stories have reinforced why we must all work together to understand how best we can help our children to stay safe. The learning will be shared in Croydon and nationally.
School is out next week so check out some of the activities on offer from the council and our partners. Our year as London Borough of Culture has some fantastic family events, including the new Rewind: This is Croydon Music exhibition in the museum, and Music NXTGen:Croydon on Monday at Fairfield Halls is a great opportunity for young people to get invaluable insight into the music industry.
Wishing you all a fun and relaxing break.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
