Cuts ahead for Worthing and Adur youth services

West Sussex County Council is reviewing its youth services as part of a series of cost-cutting measures.

"As usual, it's slash and burn from the Tories," said county Liberal Democrat leader Morwen Millson.

"Two years ago, they raised their own allowances, but now we're told that a whopping 2million has to be slashed from a service that supports young people across our county.

"The recession has put many families under huge pressure. This is the time when the youth service comes into its own, supporting young people when they need it most."

'blown budget'

Mrs Millson said the measures were necessary because the Conservatives had "blown" their budget on a new 18million building in Horsham.

Leader of the council, Henry Smith, said the review was necessary because the council had received low funding for eight years running.

"I am saddened that they have chosen to release such a political press release," he said.

"No area can be excluded from finding more efficient ways of working. We believe we can be more efficient in delivering youth services, especially to those who need it most."

A spokesman for the county council said no final decisions had been taken, but the aim of the review was to create an integrated youth support and development service, combining, for example, the functions of the youth service, the youth offending service and Connexions.

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