We aim to resolve complaints as soon as we can .We are committed to using the information we receive from complaints to improve services and undertake regular reviews of this information. Where applicable we will resolve the issue informally by raising a request for service or discussing with the service area involved .You will receive a response within 10 working days advising of the action taken.
We use the following definition, from the Local Government Ombudsman, to decide if a complaint has been made:"A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction about a council service (whether that service is provided directly by the council or by a contractor or partner) that requires a response."
If the complaint is to follow the formal complaints process then the following will apply;
Stage 1 - A manager will respond to your complaint within 15 working days.
Stage 2 - If you are not satisfied with our stage 1 response the director for the service area will review the matter and contact you within 20 working days with a view to resolving your complaint.
If you are still dissatisfied
If you've been through all stages of our complaints procedure and remain dissatisfied, you can refer your complaint to the relevant Ombudsman.
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
PO Box 4771
Coventry
CV4 0EH
Telephone: 0300 061 0614
Website: www.lgo.org.uk
Housing Ombudsman Service
Exchange Tower
Harbour Exchange Square
London
E14 9GE
Telephone: 0300 111 3000 (lines are open Monday to Friday from 9:15 to 17:15)
Email: info@housing-ombudsman.org.uk
You can ask a designated person i.e. a local councillor, MP or designated tenant panel to mediate on your behalf and, if considered necessary, refer the complaint to the Housing Ombudsman. Alternatively, you can wait a period of 8 weeks after the complaints process has been exhausted and then refer the complaint direct to the Housing Ombudsman.
Complaints procedure
Complaints, Compliments & Comments Procedure [107KB]
Complain about a Councillor
To complain about a councillor please visit our councillors page where you can find out more information on how to do this.
