Exceptional Financial Support (EFS)
Barnet Council is addressing significant financial risks including reliance on Exceptional Financial Support, while Hillingdon Council anticipates using EFS.
Barnet Council formally accepted 18 recommendations in September 2026 from a financial review highlighting its substantial reliance on Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) due to projected structural deficits. Meanwhile, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet approved its 2026/27 budget in February 2026, anticipating the use of up to £62 million in EFS from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to address a projected budget gap.
Exceptional Financial Support is a form of financial assistance provided by the government to local authorities facing significant financial difficulties. Councils like Lambeth are also navigating substantial financial pressures, with a projected £15.9 million General Fund overspend for 2025/26, primarily due to demand-led services and temporary accommodation costs.
Key facts
- Barnet Council accepted all 18 recommendations from a financial review in September 2026. Source
- Barnet Council's structural deficit is projected to reach £79.3 million in 2026-27. Source
- Hillingdon Council anticipates using up to £62 million in EFS from MHCLG. Source
- Hillingdon Council's Cabinet approved a 4.99% Council Tax increase in February 2026. Source
- Lambeth Council faces a £15.9 million General Fund overspend for 2025/26. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.