Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a carer. This is because the alleged harassment and stalking by a carer is best dealt with by the Police. And we have no remit to consider the carer’s employment with the care company.

The complaint

1. Ms X says she was harassed and stalked by a carer who turned up at her door. Ms X says the carer was concerned about Ms X’s connection with a third party. Ms X would like the care agency to review the employment of this carer as she does not consider the carer is suitable to work with people in need of care and support.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about adult social care providers. We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We may decide not to start or continue with an investigation if we believe:

• we cannot achieve the outcome someone wants and
• there is another body better placed to consider this complaint.

(Local Government Act 1974, sections 34B(8) and (9))

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by the complainant and the care provider.
4. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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My assessment

5. The care provider says the carer complained about attended Ms X’s house out of hours in a personal capacity. Ms X says she has reported this matter to the Police. There are no grounds for us to review the carer’s employment and this matter is best dealt with by the Police.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman