SGO and problems with housing/ social services

[lovemyboys25]

hi I am asking for a friend
2 years ago they took in their 3 grandchildren to live alongside their 4 year old in a 2 bed housing association house.
They have been discussing with social services for the whole time the fact the house isn't big enough but because children came from a different county they are each saying thats it not their responsibility
They are gold banded in their area but there are no 4 bed houses.
They have 3 boys and 1 girl.

The children also have alot of SEN due to their circumstances which is making them hard to look after and my friends weren't really warned about any of this.

They have contact SS, local MP etc but all say they can't do anymore to help.

Is there another way to put in a formal complaint to social services?

no one?

There is nothing to stop them putting in a request for an assessment of needs by the placing authority and making a case for financial support. I would also put in a complaint to the head of service to see whether that will encourage them to help out with a fostering allowance to help towards the cost of renting a bigger house.
One word of advice copy all correspondence and send registered post. Copy offsted in as well and don't let them lose your complaint as happened to me once.
Otherwise they might have to start putting their arms up their backs by hinting at it not being feasible to carry on etc etc . The placing authority will not want this placement to fail and I am not suggesting they would ever do that but sometimes you have to apply a bit of subtle pressure to focus the mind.

they have already said if its not going to be sorted then the children might have to leave but its making no difference, I just feel for my poor friend she is running out of steam

Would seek advice and support from SGO Professionals. They may already (LA) be part of this .
www.specialgaurdianshipsupport.org.uk
also at www.family-action.org.uk
Helpline No 0808 802 1111
Wish you all the best XX