Why it matters: The council is inviting feedback from residents, businesses and community organisations to help shape its budget for the 2026/27 financial year, with potential Council Tax increases on the table to fund essential services.
The details: An online consultation has been launched to explain the council's current financial position and offer Suffolk residents the chance to share their views on proposed Council Tax changes and spending priorities. The consultation opened on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, and closes on Tuesday, 25 November 2025.
Residents are asked to share feedback on which council services they have used recently, whether they support an increase in Council Tax contributions and which areas they believe should be prioritised in the budget-setting process.
The bigger picture: The council can increase its budget in two main ways: through additional government funding or by raising council tax. The consultation explains how the council manages its finances, the cost-saving measures already in place and potential ways to generate additional income to support essential services.
What they're saying: Cllr Richard Smith MVO, Suffolk County Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Economic Development and Skills, said: "Councils across the country are facing significant financial pressures, and Suffolk is no exception. Every year, the demand for council services – especially adult and children's services – continues to grow. Suffolk County Council has a strong track record of managing its finances responsibly, but public funding has not kept pace with rising demand."
He added: "We remain committed to supporting our most vulnerable residents, and this means that we must sometimes make difficult decisions about other services. Local government reorganisation will help reduce duplication and free up money to reinvest in services. Until then, we must continue making informed, balanced decisions about Council Tax and spending priorities."
What's next: All responses will be considered alongside input from businesses, public sector partners, elected members and council officers as part of the budget planning for the next financial year. The results will be included in a final report when the budget is set in February 2026.
The bottom line: Suffolk County Council is seeking residents' input to help navigate "significant financial pressures", with "difficult decisions" ahead about Council Tax levels and which services to prioritise as demand continues to outpace available funding.
