Story perspectives

London Councils Spend £555M on Private Consultancies Amid Budget Cuts

12/6/2025

Summary

Story summary

London councils spent more than £555 million in 2024 on private consultancy and outsourcing, up since 2010 due to budget cuts.
The Autonomy Institute's findings show systemic reliance on these firms for essential services.
Lambeth Council spent over £80 million and Barnet Council over £40 million, with Barnet ending its Capita contract by 2026.
Lambeth Council disputes the report, alleging cost misattribution and stressing private partnerships amid a housing crisis.

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Story summary

London councils spent more than £555 million in 2024 on private consultancy and outsourcing, up since 2010 due to budget cuts.
The Autonomy Institute's findings show systemic reliance on these firms for essential services.
Lambeth Council spent over £80 million and Barnet Council over £40 million, with Barnet ending its Capita contract by 2026.
Lambeth Council disputes the report, alleging cost misattribution and stressing private partnerships amid a housing crisis.