Decision details

1.

Title of Item/Report

Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman Annual Complaints Report 2025/26

2.

Record of the Decision

Consideration was given to a report relating to enquiries received by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman in respect of the Council.

It was explained that 69 complaints and enquiries had been received concerning the Council during 2025/26 and the Ombudsman had responded to 51 of these, compared with 30 in the previous year. Seven had proceeded to detailed investigation and all seven were upheld; these concerned Adult Services, SEND and Inclusion, Children’s Social Care and Community School Transport. All Ombudsman recommendations were accepted and implemented by the Council, and in three of the seven cases the Ombudsman was satisfied that the Council had already provided an appropriate remedy before investigation. The report notes that complaints training and guidance on remedies had been strengthened to maximise organisational learning.

RESOLVED that the report be noted.

3.

Reasons for the Decision

To provide Cabinet with the Ombudsman’s annual review and assurance regarding the Council’s response to upheld complaints, implementation of recommendations and learning from complaints.

4.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None

5.

Declared (Cabinet Member) Conflicts of Interest

None

6.

Details of any Dispensations

None

7.

Date and Time by which Call In must be executed

Not applicable, report for noting and acknowledging only.