RESOLVED:

3.1 That Cabinet support the application of the Code from 1st April 2026, focusing on compliance whilst acknowledging that resource challenges may lead to some practical challenges and delays and noting that action may be taken by the Ombudsman in respect of any failures to implement the Code in full from the new financial year.

3.2 That Cabinet acknowledges that collective effort will be required across the Council to ensure that complaints are prioritised appropriately.

3.3 That Cabinet support the requirement within the Code for Oversight and Scrutiny of the complaints handling processes and annual reporting to Elected Members (to include the Ombudsman’s annual letter and performance data).