The Local Government Ombudsman investigates complaints about councils and other authorities, with the aim of putting things right if they have gone wrong.

They are appointed by Her Majesty The Queen and are completely independent of the Government and Councils. Like judges, they are impartial. The Ombudsman have the same powers as the High Court to order anyone to produce information or documents for their investigations, which are carried out in private.

Before the Ombudsmen can investigate a complaint, the Council must have a chance to answer it.
If you have not yet complained to the Council, please do so. You can find out how to complain by visiting our Compliments & Complaints section, or from the Council Offices or you can ask your local councillor to help.

If you are not satisfied with the Council's answer, or if the Council does not give you an answer within a reasonable time, you can complain to the Ombudsman for your area. Remember, you should make your complaint, in writing, to the Ombudsman, or a councillor, within 12 months of you becoming aware of the problem.

Full details on how to complain can be found in the booklet "How to complain to the Local Government Ombudsman".

Local Govt Ombudsman - Annual Letter 20.04.05

Local Govt Ombudsman - Statistics 20.04.05

Local Govt Ombudsman - Statistics Interpretation Notes