Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about a community substance misuse service. This is because the actions complained about do not relate to the provision of adult social care.

The complaint

1. In summary, Miss X says she received a poor service from a substance misuse service. She says she started drinking again and was suicidal. She would like the service closed down.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about adult social care providers and decide whether their actions have caused an injustice, or could have caused injustice, to the person making the complaint. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 34B and 34C)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

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

Back to top

My assessment

5. We can investigate complaints about actions by adult social care providers that can be regulated by the Care Quality Commission. Such activities include giving personal care or other practical support in the place where the person lives.
6. I have checked the website of the Care Quality Commission. The facility that Miss X complains about is not providing adult social care services. So we have no jurisdiction to investigate as these matters do not relate to the provision of adult social care.

Back to top

Final decision

7. We cannot investigate this complaint as the service complained about is not in connection with adult social care.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman