Government issues 'best value notice' to Somerset Council
The authority and some of its councillors have responded to the move
The Government has issued a Best Value Notice to Somerset Council, shining a spotlight on how the council is managing its operations.
For those unaware, a Best Value Notice is essentially the Government's way of checking in to make sure councils are delivering services effectively and aiming for long-term sustainability.
Despite the increased scrutiny, Somerset Council is determined to keep essential services running. They've got initiatives like establishing an Improvement Advisory Board, promoting Building Better Finance, and launching Inspiring Innovation programmes to help tackle their challenges.
These challenges include rising demands in Adult Social Care, Children’s Services, SEND, and homelessness. To address specific issues, they've already invested £5.3 million in improving SEND support and responded to the Care Quality Commission's September 2025 review of adult social care.
Council Leader Bill Revans is clear-eyed about the situation. While he accepts Somerset faces tough, complex issues, he emphasizes that local decision-making and service delivery remain a priority. The council aims for a balanced budget by 2027-28 without relying on extra financial support.
In a statement he said:
“We take today’s announcement seriously and welcome the additional support it will bring as we continue improving the council’s finances and governance.
“Somerset, like many councils across the country, faces significant financial pressures driven by rising demand for children’s services, adult social care, SEND and homelessness. We’ve never shied away from those challenges and have already taken difficult decisions to reduce the financial gap, cut borrowing and strengthen the council’s long-term financial position.
“Rather than being about taking control of the Council, a Best Value Notice provides additional support and challenge to help us continue the improvements already underway. Our focus remains on restoring long-term financial stability while protecting the essential services that Somerset residents rely on. That’s what we’ll continue working tirelessly to deliver.”
“It’s easy to criticise difficult decisions, but much harder to offer a realistic alternative. So far we’ve heard plenty of criticism from opposition parties, but no credible, costed plan for addressing the financial challenges facing Somerset. We’ll continue focusing on the job of putting the council on a sustainable footing and protecting vital local services.”
Cllr Leigh Redman, Leader of the Labour Group at Somerset Council, said:
"The receipt of a Best Value Notice is clearly a serious matter for Somerset Council, and one that should be treated as an opportunity to demonstrate how we will continue strengthening the organisation and improving outcomes for our residents.
"Local people rightly expect a council that is financially sustainable, well governed and focused on delivering effective services. The notice reflects concerns that need to be addressed, but it also provides a clear framework through which the council can demonstrate progress and improvement.
"Somerset has faced significant challenges in recent years, including local government reorganisation, ongoing financial pressures affecting councils across the country, and the complexity of transforming services while continuing to support residents. It is important that we acknowledge those challenges while remaining focused on the work needed to move forward.
"Labour councillors have consistently supported strong governance, effective scrutiny and transparent decision making. We believe these principles will be essential as the council responds to the notice and works to provide assurance that the necessary improvements are being delivered.
"This should not be viewed as a moment for political point scoring. Instead, it should bring members of all political groups, officers and partners together with a shared focus on strengthening the council and maintaining public confidence.
"We will continue to provide constructive challenge where needed and support actions that improve accountability, financial resilience and service delivery. Residents will rightly expect openness about the council's progress, and regular evidence that the improvements being sought are being achieved.
"Ultimately, everyone involved wants the same outcome: a strong, sustainable Somerset Council that delivers high-quality services and provides the best possible value for residents. The priority now is to work collectively to achieve that goal."
As Somerset Council focuses on enhancing its financial management, governance, and services under Government scrutiny, the authority is seeking advice and support while keeping essential services available for everyone in the area.