Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint as it is outside our jurisdiction. Mr X’s care was arranged and funded by the NHS and so the complaint can be investigated by the Health Services Ombudsman.

The complaint

1. Mrs B complains about the care and treatment of her late father in the care home.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about councils and certain other bodies. We cannot investigate a complaint which can be investigated by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 5A.2)

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered evidence provided by Mrs B and the care provider as well as relevant law, policy and guidance.

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What I found

4. Mr X was admitted to the care centre from hospital. While at the care centre he fell and broke his hip. He later died.
5. Mrs B says there were insufficient measures in place to prevent her father, who presented with confusion, from falling.
6. She says there was a lack of communication with the family about Mr X’s accident. She also says that care following his fall was poor.

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Decision

7. The local NHS commissioned Mr X’s care in the care centre. We cannot therefore investigate this complaint, which can be made to the Health Service Ombudsman.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman