Why the 2 per cent Adult Social Care precept matters

Article date: 20 March 2026

We believe that how a community treats its most vulnerable says everything about its values. At a time when councils nationally are facing unprecedented financial pressures, we continue to place adult social care at the heart of everything we do — and the 2 per cent Adult Social Care precept from your council tax plays a vital role in making that possible.

A lifeline for thousands of residents

Every year, the council supports more than 4,800 adults through a range of high‑quality social care services — from reablement and day opportunities to home‑based support and our 24/7 Careline service. This work enables residents to stay safe, well, and independent.

Our commitment is reflected in how we allocate our resources:

• 37p of every £1 spent goes towards supporting vulnerable children and adults
• 35p of every £1 supports older people and adults with disabilities
• That means 72 per cent of the entire council budget is spent on protecting vulnerable adults and children
• Council Tax raises around £100m per year, yet the council alone spends £40m supporting vulnerable adults and as corporate parents, children looked after.

This investment reflects both the scale of need and our unwavering commitment to protecting those who rely on us most.

Recognised nationally for excellence

Our approach is not only compassionate — it is effective.

The Care Quality Commission's 2025 assessment rated our adult social care services as Good, recognising the council's strong leadership, person‑centred practice, and commitment to improvement. Service users agree too, with data from a recent survey highlighting that 92.7 per cent of people are satisfied with the support they receive, placing St Helens significantly above national and regional averages.

Innovation that touches hearts

One of the most inspiring areas of progress in St Helens Borough is our award‑winning approach to tech‑enabled care, including the thoughtful use of artificial intelligence and digital tools to improve quality of life.

This includes the introduction of robotic companion pets, which have proven especially transformative for people living with dementia, anxiety, and social isolation. These technologies don't replace human care — they enhance it, offering comfort, reducing distress, and creating moments of joy for residents and families alike.

For frontline staff, AI‑supported care planning and digital coordination tools free up more time for the human interactions that matter most.

Simply put: technology is helping us deliver care with more heart, not less.

Supporting people to live 'Healthier, Happier Lives'

Our strategy remains clear: to help residents stay in their own homes, avoid unnecessary hospital admissions, and live independently for longer. Early intervention and preventative support are at the centre of everything we do.

This approach improves people's wellbeing — and it also ensures that resources are used in the most effective, sustainable way.

Investing in the future care workforce

We're also preparing for the future by creating a state‑of‑the‑art Health and Care Careers Hub in the town centre. Funded through the Town Deal, this new hub will:

• Train the next generation of care professionals
• Offer hands‑on skills development
• Provide clear pathways into rewarding, meaningful careers

This investment will help build a resilient, skilled workforce equipped to meet rising levels of need for years to come, with the hub expected to open this year.

As we look to the future, our commitment is simple and steadfast: to stand alongside every resident who needs us, to protect those who are most vulnerable, and to continue investing in the services that keep people safe, independent, and supported. Together, with our communities, partners, and dedicated workforce, we will keep building a borough where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity, security, and hope. This is our promise — working with you, for you.