7BF1Complaints procedure
1
The Secretary of State may by order require local authorities to establish a procedure for considering any representations (including any complaints) which are made to them by a qualifying individual, or anyone acting on his behalf, in relation to the discharge of, or any failure to discharge, any of their social services functions in respect of that individual.
2
In relation to a particular local authority, an individual is a qualifying individual for the purposes of subsection (1) above if—
a
the authority have a power or a duty to provide, or to secure the provision of, a service for him; and
b
his need or possible need for such a service has (by whatever means) come to the attention of the authority.
3
A local authority shall comply with any directions given by the Secretary of State as to the procedure to be adopted in considering representations made as mentioned in subsection (1) above and as to the taking of such action as may be necessary in consquence of such representations.
4
Local authorities shall give such publicity to any procedure established pursuant to this section as they consider appropriate.