Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a social worker. Further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.

The complaint

1. Mr X complained about his social worker. He said they were not trained in autism. Mr X wants a different social worker.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’, which we call ‘fault’. We must also consider whether any fault has had an adverse impact on the person making the complaint, which we call ‘injustice’. We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We do not start or continue an investigation if we decide further investigation would not lead to a different outcome. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended, section 34(B))

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

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

Back to top

My assessment

5. In response to Mr X’s complaint, the Council completed autism training with the team that supports Mr X. I am satisfied with the steps the Council took to address his concerns. We cannot tell the Council to change Mr X’s social worker. Further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.

Back to top

Final decision

6. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman