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Without extra money from the UK and Welsh Governments, the council, in common with others across the UK, is facing a multi-million pound budget gap in the years up to 2025-26.

With inflation reaching levels not seen since the ‘80s, it is estimated the council’s energy costs alone will rise by £8m in 2023-24 and as Council Tax only makes up 25% of the council’s budget - Government intervention is needed.

Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt, said: “There is no doubt the financial position for many of our residents as well as this council will be one of the most, if not the most, challenging we have ever faced.

“So, over the coming weeks, a series of face to face meetings will take place in various venues across the County Borough.

“No ‘one person’ and no ‘one group of people’ will know all the answers and we really need residents’ input together with help from trade unions and other partners so we can get through this difficult time together.”

The time and dates and venues for these events will be promoted via Facebook @NeathPortTalbotCBC or @CyngorCnPT and Twitter @NPTCouncil or @CyngorCnPT.

The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget Statement is now due to be released on November 17th when a mix of spending cuts and tax increases is expected.

In the meantime, please join us in our continuous lobbying of the Welsh and UK governments over funding. If you haven’t yet signed Unison’s petitions please consider doing this and asking people you know to sign as well. (see details below)

• Petition to Welsh Government - Allocate additional funding to Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council to ensure its sustainability
• Campaign to MPs - It's Time To Save Our Services

Neath Port Talbot Council Deputy Leader Cllr Alun Llewelyn said: “The coalition wanted to discuss the challenges we are facing together with our residents face to face and these meetings will be in all parts of the county borough. Please look at the council website and social media for details of the venues, times and dates.”