As you may be aware, Woking Borough Council has significant financial challenges.

The Council are seeking residents’ views on the discretionary services that matter most to them.

Click on the Woking Community Forum

So far over 5,000 people have responded.

The closing date is 10th August 2023

The full Woking Press release is below with the link to the survey.

Help shape the future of discretionary council services.

Woking Borough Council is keen to hear from local residents, businesses and community partners on the future of discretionary services that the council currently provides. 

Services, such as arts and culture, sports and leisure, and independent living, are currently funded at the discretion of Woking Borough Council. These are services that the council is not obliged to offer, and many other councils do not always fund or provide.

Considering the significant financial challenges the council faces, including the need to bridge an £11 million budget shortfall in 2024/25, it is necessary to make difficult decisions about these discretionary services. In order to continue providing these services the council may need to increase charges, transfer the delivery of services to partners or not provide the service at all.

It is important that the council hears the views of local residents and partners on the discretionary services that matter most to them before any decisions are made. Local resident and partner views will be paramount in determining the future of the discretionary services that are provided whilst ensuring best value for the local taxpayer. The more feedback received the better informed the council will be. 

Residents and partners can tell the council their views on discretionary services by visiting Woking Community Forum. Paper copies are available upon request.

The closing date is Thursday 10 August 2023.