Special guardianship support complaints CA 1989 s. 14G
Local authorities must set up procedures for handling complaints and representations about special guardianship support services under CA 1989 s. 14G.
14G Every local authority shall establish a procedure for considering representations (including complaints) made to them by any person to whom they may provide special guardianship support services about the discharge of their functions under section 14F in relation to him. Regulations may be made by the Secretary of State imposing time limits on the making of representations under subsection (1). In considering representations under subsection (1), a local authority shall comply with regulations (if any) made by the Secretary of State for the purposes of this subsection.
Text in force at .
Source: legislation.gov.uk — The National Archives (legislation.gov.uk), reproduced under licence Open Government Licence v3.0.
What it actually says
Local authorities must set up an official process to handle formal feedback and complaints regarding their special guardianship support duties. This applies to anyone eligible to receive support services, ensuring they have a designated route to challenge or comment on how the council exercises its support functions under section 14F.
Government ministers hold the authority to create regulations setting fixed time limits for lodging these complaints. When reviewing any representations under subsection 1, the local authority must strictly adhere to all relevant procedural regulations set by the Secretary of State.
When it applies
- A special guardian filing a formal complaint after the local council unexpectedly reduces their therapeutic support package.
- A relative looking after a child under a special guardianship order challenging a council decision to deny financial support assessments.
- A child subject to a special guardianship arrangement submitting feedback about the council failing to deliver agreed respite care services.
What this section does not say
- Applying for or varying a special guardianship court order itself, which is dealt with under section 14A or section 14D.
- Complaining about general children in need social services outside of special guardianship, which falls under section 17.
- Enforcing financial provision orders for children, which is addressed under section 15.
Related sections
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This page reproduces the text of CA 1989 s. 14G in force at the date shown and explains it in general terms. It is not legal advice and takes no account of the circumstances of your case, which can change the answer completely. For a live dispute, for limitation periods, and before taking any step in court, consult a qualified lawyer in England and Wales.