In the second of two short films, Councillor Joe Fagan explains how all councils are being squeezed by rising costs and unfair funding from government.

He says: “South Lanarkshire Council is a high-performing council and we are proud of the work we do with, and for, our communities. We deeply regret that financial challenges outside of our control are putting that good work at risk.

“But the Scottish Government has now told us the money they give councils won’t rise for three years – even though the costs of delivering services are up hugely.

“Put simply, we no longer have the funding available for the same number and level of services we have provided in previous years. This means we face some awful decisions about what we can afford to do.”

Councillor Fagan notes that South Lanarkshire Council already has had to save more than £142 million since 2013-14. Now the council has to bridge a further budget gap of more than £70m in the next two financial years.

And he tells residents and service users: “There are no easy options or answers. But you can tell us what is most important to you. And we will listen.”

You can take part in the consultation online, by emailing the team, or posting responses to Budget Consultation, Floor 4, South Lanarkshire Council, Almada Street, Hamilton ML3 0AA.