Less talk and more action, say Lib Dems

The Liberal Democrats at County Hall have urged the Conservative administration to support the voluntary sector in Surrey with actions, rather than words.

In response to a Conservative Motion to the Council, Cllr Fiona White, Liberal Democrat Spokeswoman on Adult Social Services, said: "It is all very well to say that the Council supports the voluntary sector, but words alone are not enough. Last year, Surrey County Council cut its funding to the voluntary sector by more than £1,000,000."

"Then there are times when Surrey is so late in paying its bills to voluntary organisations that they have difficulty with their own budgets. The council should restore the level of funding that it provided last year. It should also pay its bills on time."

Cllr White continued: "I am well aware that finances are tight. However, supporting the voluntary sector is good value for money. Many of the services provided by the voluntary service are preventive, which means that many people can maintain their independent way of living for much longer, thus avoiding the need for expensive specialised care to be provided by the council."

Cllr White added: "Voluntary organisations like the Citizens Advice Bureau are experiencing cuts in funding, which mean that there are victims of domestic violence and people struggling with debt who can't access professional advise any more. Children may be forced to live in a violent and abusive environment and people are at risk of losing their homes."

"The voluntary sector needs our support to continue their essential task at the heart of our communities. It delivers excellent value for money. To withhold the Council's financial support at this moment shows a short-sightedness that will prove very expensive in the long term."