Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman

Who can complain to the Ombudsman

Under sections 26A and 26C of the Local Government Act 1974 (LGA 1974), a complaint to the Ombudsman may only be made by a member of the public. It is possible for complaints to be made on someone's behalf (including by a member of the same or of a different council) if the person affected has given written permission. The complainant must claim to have suffered injustice. If the person affected has died, or is unable to act, their personal representative can make a complaint on their behalf.

A member of the public:

•
means a person or a body of people (including clubs and other organisations), not part of the council

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