The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) said social care and schools should be prioritised for any extra funding flowing to Wales following the UK Government's upcoming Spring Statement.

Council leaders warn demand for care is rising while cases are becoming more complex, placing growing strain on local authority budgets.

More than 81,000 people in Wales currently rely on ongoing care and support, with councils reporting an in-year overspend of £69m in social services.

The WLGA said sustained investment is needed to move services away from crisis response and towards prevention and early intervention for vulnerable residents and families.

Cllr Anthony Hunt, WLGA spokesperson for Finance, commented: ‘Councils are facing exceptional pressures across the board, but none so great as in social care and education. These are not optional services; they are lifelines for families and vulnerable residents.'