Summary: Mr X complained that the Council failed to properly communicate with him and failed to investigate a safeguarding referral about his brother, Mr P. However, he has now decided to withdraw his complaint. The Council has taken action that he is content with and he feels his brother’s interests are now being properly addressed.

The complaint

1. Mr X complained that:

• The Council failed to communicate with him properly, and
• failed to investigate safeguarding issues in relation to his brother, effectively.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. If we are satisfied with a council’s actions or proposed actions, we can complete our investigation and issue a decision statement. (Local Government Act 1974, section 30(1B) and 34H(i), as amended)
3. We can decide whether to start or discontinue an investigation into a complaint within our jurisdiction. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 24A(6) and 34B(8), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

4. I spoke with Mr X and considered the information he had provided. I gave both the Council and the complainant the opportunity to comment on my draft decision.

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What I found

5. Mr P has Down’s Syndrome. He needs a lot of care. Until recently, Mr P was staying in accommodation where Mr X felt there were issues with his care. When he complained about this the Council instigated a safeguarding investigation. However, Mr X was very unhappy with the report. He did not consider it was far-reaching enough and did not address all his issues.
6. More recently, the Council has moved Mr P from the accommodation complained of. Mr X says Mr P’s health has improved considerably and he feels the Council is now working with him to do what is best for Mr P. He commends, in particular, two officers for their hard work in resolving the issues he raised and for the outcome achieved.
7. Mr X says the Council has apologised and while he is still in disagreement about some issues, he has decided to withdraw his complaint.

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Final decision

8. The complainant has decided to withdraw his complaint and I am therefore discontinuing this investigation.

Investigator’s final decision to discontinue

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman