Advice: regulator for local authorities?

[PippaH]

Does anyone know if there is a body/organisation that can hold local authorities accountable if they do not uphold their statutory obligations? This would not be the Local Government Ombudsman who only look at a local authorities failure to provide a service, etc., that directly affects a complainant. I would like to draw attention to my local authorities 'failures' which affect vulnerable people. Unfortunately the local councillors and MP do not have any interest in highlighting these failures. I have spent months trying to find a solution, but have been unsuccessful - any signposts would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[R0b]

Have you tried looking at the Local Government Ombudsman website?


https://www.lgo.org.uk/

[PippaH]

Thank you for your suggestion Rob. I have been in contact with the LGO several times and they are unable to advise me further because their remit is only to handle issues where a complainant seeks redress from a local authority. I have approached the Minister of Housing - her office forwarded me to the Ministry of Communities, Housing and Local Government. They only deal with policies and are at a loss as to what happens if a local authority doesn't follow policies/rules/laws. I find it hard to believe that a local authority cannot be held to account, but it appears to be so unless someone can advise me otherwise?

[des8]

No body as such... down to the individual.
A person aggrieved by a public authority’s failure to perform a statutory duty may be able to apply for judicial review and obtain an order compelling it to act, or quashing some decision in breach of its duty

However it is easier said than done.
First of all you need to ascertain if the statute actually creates a duty which is enforceable by legal means.
The duty can be expressed in such general terms that it is only enforceable politically.

And then there is the cost. Upwards of £30,000 if you are unsuccessful.
You may be able to arrange a CFA/ATE insurance if you are also claiming compensation .
There might also be the possibility of a Protective costs order

[PippaH]

Thank you DES8 - sorry for the delay in responding, I've been ill. Your advice is useful in telling me what I would have to establish. Unfortunately, I would be unable to pay £30k. Thank you for responding.