Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about the Council’s handling of the complainant’s friend’s support needs. This is because the complainant has no authority to bring the complaint on his friend’s behalf.

The complaint

1. In short, Mr X complains about his friend being failed by the Council before they died. He would like an enquiry into what happened and staff to be held accountable.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We may investigate complaints made on behalf of someone else if they have given their consent. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26A(1), as amended)
3. We may investigate a complaint on behalf of someone who has died. The complaint may be made by their personal representative. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26A(2), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

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

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My assessment

6. I have seen no information showing that Mr X has any authority to bring this complaint so we cannot investigate.

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Final decision

7. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint as I have seen no information to show that he has authority to bring the complaint on behalf of his late friend.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman