The government has announced a £91 million fund to help 14 councils with expensive services including adult social care and temporary accommodation.

The funding will help the councils modernise services, harness AI and reduce their reliance on emergency support.

The money will go to 14 councils in England that already receive Exceptional Financial Support, a mechanism to help councils under the most severe financial pressure balance the books.

Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, Jim McMahon OBE said: “Councils have been under enormous strain from a broken funding system and spiralling demand for services like care and temporary accommodation.

“That’s why we took action from day one to fix the foundations by addressing the causes of those issues, from reforming the outdated local government funding system to tackling homelessness, challenges with children’s services and in the SEND system.

“This targeted support for councils facing the toughest pressures is the next step forward, helping end reliance on emergency funding and providing a blueprint for reform across local government.”