Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman

LGSCO investigates complaints about local councils, adult social care providers, and some other organisations. They can recommend remedies when things go wrong.

Before Contacting LGSCO

You must first complain to the council or care provider directly. LGSCO can only investigate after the organisation has had a chance to respond through their complaints procedure.

About LGSCO

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) investigates complaints about councils and some other authorities and organisations, including adult social care providers. They are independent and impartial, and their service is free.

Services Covered by LGSCO

LGSCO can investigate complaints about a wide range of local authority and social care services:

Adult social care services
Children's services and SEND
Housing and homelessness
Council tax and benefits
Planning and building control
Environmental health
Education (admissions, exclusions, transport)
Care homes and domiciliary care
Direct payments and personal budgets
Blue badges and disabled facilities grants

How to Make a Complaint

1. Complete Local Complaints First

Give the council or care provider the chance to resolve your complaint. You should usually receive a final response before contacting LGSCO.

2. Gather Your Evidence

Collect copies of complaint correspondence, relevant documents, and a timeline of events. LGSCO will need this to investigate.

3. Submit Your Complaint

You can complain online, by phone, or by post. Explain what went wrong, how it affected you, and what you think should happen to put things right.

What LGSCO Can Recommend

  • An apology from the organisation
  • Financial compensation for loss, distress, or time and trouble
  • Action to remedy the injustice caused
  • Service improvements to prevent the same problem recurring
  • Training for staff to improve future practice

Contact Details

Phone

0300 061 0614

Address

Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
PO Box 4771
Coventry CV4 0EH

Online Complaint Form

Submit a complaint online

Related Resources