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Hartlepool Council Slams Housing Secretary Over Funding Snub

3/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Hartlepool's Labour council accuses Housing Secretary Steve Reed of arrogance toward children in social care after dismissing a £3 million funding request.
Council leader Pamela Hargreaves condemned Reed's comments as morally bankrupt.
The government pledges £78 billion for local authorities.
Hartlepool says this funding is insufficient amid rising costs, noting below-average funding for looked-after children and reliance on costly private placements.
The Labour group is considering resignations.

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Story summary

Hartlepool's Labour council accuses Housing Secretary Steve Reed of arrogance toward children in social care after dismissing a £3 million funding request.
Council leader Pamela Hargreaves condemned Reed's comments as morally bankrupt.
The government pledges £78 billion for local authorities.
Hartlepool says this funding is insufficient amid rising costs, noting below-average funding for looked-after children and reliance on costly private placements.
The Labour group is considering resignations.