Last year, I wrote about the challenges and frustrations faced by many in Aberdeen when our city’s budget was set without sufficient public consultation. Many local organisations found themselves at crisis point when vital sources of funding from the local authority, such as the Fairer Aberdeen Fund, were potentially placed on the chopping block by Aberdeen City Council.
At the time I highlighted the issues around transparency in the process and the lack of means for public involvement in the decision-making process. The result? A feeling among many organisations and residents that their voices were not heard.
We knew then that something had to change. That’s why ACVO, alongside many of you, called for a more inclusive and participatory approach to the local council budget, one that genuinely considers the views and needs of the people of Aberdeen.
What we got was last year’s public budget consultation from Aberdeen City Council, which although had its issues, signified a step in the right direction.
That time has come around once again and, as of August 19th 2024, Aberdeen City Council’s Public consultation, which will help shape the 2025/26 budget and future spending plans, has been launched.
The consultation is, in theory, designed to give all of us a greater say in how our city’s money is spent. As I said last year, our sector and our Council are partners in the drive to make Aberdeen a happier, healthier, more equal place to live and work but the third sector needs money in order to do that. The consultation gives us the opportunity to clearly state the importance of our funding and how vital our work is for the wider city.
The revised budget protocol includes a two-phase consultation process, providing multiple opportunities for public input. The first phase gathers broad feedback on spending priorities, and the second phase presents detailed budget proposals for further community input. This structured approach aims to foster greater understanding and collaboration between the Council and the communities it serves as the Council looks to make savings of £34m next year and £54m over the next three years, to stay within budget.
Last year, during the consultation for the 2024/25 budget, ACVO took an active role in ensuring that the voices of the third sector were heard. We hosted a meeting where 31 representatives from 26 organisations shared their concerns about potential budget cuts and their impact on services and communities. We then presented a summary of these views to elected members, council officials, and the public. The message was clear: “the third sector is calling upon Aberdeen City Council to take immediate and decisive action” to protect vital services and support vulnerable residents.
Our collective efforts had an impact. The Council recognised the importance of maintaining essential services, like those funded through the Fairer Aberdeen Fund (FAF), and the need to support the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the city. This is proof that when we come together and speak up, we can influence decisions that affect our communities.
However, no one is under any illusion that sources of funding like the FAF are not at risk this year so we urge you to make your thoughts clear once again and provide your feedback.
As we approach the 2025/26 budget, it is vital that we continue to engage in this process. The Council has made it clear that they want to hear from us – but it’s up to us to ensure that our voices are heard and noted. This is not just about reacting to proposed cuts or changes; it’s about proactively shaping the city’s spending priorities in a way that reflects our shared values and goals.
We know from past experience that if we do not participate, decisions will be made without us, potentially leading to outcomes that do not serve the best interests of our communities. This is our chance to influence how resources are allocated, advocate for fair funding for the third sector, and ensure that the services that matter most to us are protected.
How You Can Get Involved: Make Your Voice Count
The new budget consultation is open until Sunday, 15th September 2024. I strongly encourage everyone – residents, third sector organisations, and all community stakeholders – to participate. This is your opportunity to have a direct impact on the decisions that will shape Aberdeen’s future.
You can participate in the consultation by completing the survey available online via the ACC site at aberdeencitybudget.commonplace.is. Your input will help ensure that Aberdeen’s budget reflects the needs and priorities of all its residents.
ACVO will again be actively engaging with the third sector throughout this consultation period to help us present a united front to the Council.
Together, let’s continue to build a stronger, more inclusive Aberdeen. I said last year, we need to get away from the narrative that its ‘them against us’. It is an easy trap to fall into and we have all been guilty of it at some point. Although it may not feel like it sometimes, in reality, we all want the same thing for our city. Let’s keep that spirit of collaboration alive and make sure our voices are heard.
For more information on how to get involved, or if you have any questions, please contact me directly at alasdair.ross@avashire.org.uk.
