Spiralling deficits hit health trusts

Fourteen primary care trusts face massive deficits for 2006-7 and the debts of half of these have risen significantly since April, heralding cost pressures for neighbouring councils.

In total, 67 of England’s 303 PCTs are projecting deficits in 2006-7, down from 106 which reported shortfalls at the end of 2005-6, government figures show.

But 14, including Carlisle and District, Eden Valley, Trafford North and West Cumbria, predict shortfalls worth at least 5 per cent of turnover.

Councils in areas of NHS deficit have faced more pressures due to health cuts.

A spokesperson for Cumbria Council, which covers Carlisle, Eden Valley and West Cumbria trusts, said they were working together to “minimise any negative impact”.

Additional reading
Financial Performance: Quarter 1 2006-7