How much detail should go into the initial complaint to the LGO? I am preparing a complaint for my client who has a series of problems with her LA going back 7 years. I was thinking of sending a statement to accompany the form, but it could get long and complex. Is it better to just summarise the problems and offer more info on request, or to put everything in now?

Lynne,

I personally put a lot of info into the complaint. If you e-mail me on brian.coulson@burylawcentre.co.uk I will send you a copy of one - after taking out all the names / addresses to protect the innocent of course.

Regards.

Brian.

Done. Thank you

The initial letter is very important as it forms the basis of whether or not the Ombudsman decides the matter's within their jurisdiction.

If there is sufficient evidence in the letter to show grounds for an investigation, the LA are usually then written to for comments and they may resolve the complaint in the face of a possible investigation by the Ombudsman (don't underestimate how resource intensive these are for LAs). Also attach copies of relevant correspondence.

If you think your case raises wider policy and practice concerns, you should say to to reduce the likelihood of informal resolution in one case while the underlying malaise is allowed to continue.

Thanks. Looks like it's going to be a weighty document then <grimace>

The email address you gave is bouncing, so I havin't been able to contact you. Any alternative?

If you click on the pen and envelope symbol underneath his name, that should also send an email to his registered rightsnet email address.

Thank you!