Decision

To instruct Legal Services to provide legal advice and take appropriate action, including the preparation and issue of a Letter Before Action, in relation to system failures associated with Civica UK Ltd.

Reasons for the decision

The council has identified issues relating to system failures and requires legal advice regarding its position and potential remedies. Legal Services were instructed to open a legal file and progress the matter to protect the council's interests and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Alternative options considered

• Take no further action in relation to the identified system failures.
• Attempt to resolve the matter without obtaining legal advice.
• Instruct external legal advisers rather than using the council's Legal Services team.

These options were rejected as the matter required specialist legal consideration to protect the council's interests and assess available remedies.