Wirral Council receives more complaints than any other council in Merseyside, data shows.
Statistics from the Local Government Ombudsman show that from 2016-2022, Wirral Council received 19.8 complaints per 10,000 people- the highest in Merseyside. In comparison, Knowsley Council, which received the fewest complaints, sits at 13.6 complaints per 10,000 people.
According to the data, gathered from the LGO by Claims.co.uk, the most complained about aspect of the council's services on the Wirral is Education & Children's Services. The ECHO asked some people from Wirral whether they were happy with their local council, as council tax rates across the country rise.
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One person said: "If you have ever had the misfortune of having to deal with their children’s and young people’s department, especially if your child had special education needs then you will understand how awful it is and why so many complaints are made."
However, some were quick to point out that the figures were not as high as first appeared. One person said: "19.8 complaints per 10,000 people is less than one in 500. Not a lot really."
The figures also look at St Helens Council, Sefton Council, and Liverpool City Council. With LCC coming in just behind Wirral with 18.8 complaints per 10,000 people, followed by Sefton with 16.8.
The most improved council, in terms of the reduction in complaints, is Knowsley Council- with a 53.66% decrease in complaints from 2017-2022, or 4.4 fewer complaints.
A spokesperson from Wirral Council pointed out that the data can be difficult to interpret and referred the ECHO to the LGO website. Part of this reads: "An organisation that serves a large population is likely to see more complaints reach us. This could also influence the kind of complaints that are made to us. For example, a community that includes a high proportion of older people may raise more complaints about adult social care services."
George Patton, spokesperson from Claims.co.uk said: “Council tax has increased by an average of £67 for Band D properties this year amid the cost of living squeeze. Along with the tax hike are residents’ rising expectations towards their local authorities to provide better services. Hence, although taking on your council might seem daunting, it’s vital to know your right as a resident and speak out if you feel that your council has failed to deliver a service.
"Your first step should always be contacting the service provider in question. And if you are not happy with the solution provided, the Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) will come as a final resort. Be sure not to delay and lodge your complaints as soon as possible. Moreover, stay polite throughout the process and provide clear evidence to support your claim as the LGO’s decision is final - your case won’t be reviewed again unless new evidence comes to light.”
The ECHO has approached Wirral Council for comment.
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