Member

Finally, I urge noble Lords to support Amendment 161C, which creates an independent route of redress through the Local Government Ombudsman, and pauses enforcement while disputes are live unless there is reasonable suspicion of significant harm. This is about legitimacy; safeguarding depends on co-operation, co-operation depends on trust, and trust depends on accessible remedies. Judicial review is not a realistic option for most families. An ombudsman route is proportionate, independent and effective. It improves decision-making at source and prevents irreversible harm while disputes are still being resolved.