can i compel LA to perform a Serious Case Review?

[Hattifattner]

I look after a child that was seriously hurt physically and mentally while in care. Child is a minor still. Child was not the only victim.

The person that harmed the child was jailed several years ago for the crimes. I have been pushing since before the trial for a Serious Case Review, as there were a number of serious failings in care.

I have gone up the chain of command and received assurances 6 months ago that it was all in hand, that it would happen. And here we are in February, with no action. No one will give me a straight answer. Everyone was in violent agreement that it needed to happen. Only it hasn't.

My question is, what are my next steps? LA Ombudsman? Legal challenge? Is a legal challenge even possible for a SCR?

Ask the CPS? They have good information on their web site. Presumably they prosecuted in the first place. If it meets the criteria it has to happen.

Maybe go above the LA to the minister? Local MP? Sounds pretty serious & its really good that you're doing this for these children- there is good in the world!

I'm afraid I don't have the answer to your question but it seems you've had good advise from posters
I assume you're a Foster Carer. All I'd say is to be mindful that the LA who are placing the child with you ( either directly or through a voluntary agency) may not react nicely to you speaking out in public. I have known carers who have had the child removed when they have spoken out around bad practice of the LA and the LA have gone on to say they have 'lost trusting the integrity ' of the carer.
If you're not a FC but maybe a kinship carer please just be careful too
My one thought was that you could access a solicitor with the child as client

lost trust in