Summary: The Ombudsman cannot investigate this complaint about the actions of a social worker. This is because we do not have consent from the person who is the subject of the complaint.

The complaint

1. The complainant, who I shall refer to as Mrs Y, complains about the actions of a social worker in relation to the care of her relative, Mrs X.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We may investigate complaints made on behalf of someone else if they have given their consent. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26A(1), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

3. I have considered the complaint information provided by the complainant. I shared my initial views with Mrs Y.

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What I found

4. Despite several attempts requesting Mrs Y provide consent, from her relative - Mrs X - evidencing Mrs X’s consent to Mrs Y making the complaint on her behalf; we have had no response.
5. The Ombudsman cannot investigate this complaint in the absence of any evidence of consent from Mrs X.

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Final decision

6. The Ombudsman cannot investigate this complaint. This is because we do not have the consent of the relative who is the subject of the complaint.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman