Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about how the Council has dealt with child protection matters. This is because the complainant is not a suitable representative for the child involved.

The complaint

1. Mr X complains about the Council’s children’s services and its ongoing involvement with his grandchild which commenced after allegations were made about Mr X. He wants the Council to close the case as the police decided to take no further action against Mr X in relation to the allegations.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. The Local Government Act 1974 sets out our powers but also imposes restrictions on what we can investigate.
3. 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)

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How I considered this complaint

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

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My assessment

6. I will not investigate Mr X’s complaint. The Councils involvement is to safeguard Mr X’s grandchild. Given the facts of the case, and the fact that Mr X does not have parental responsibility for the child I do not consider that he is suitable to act on behalf of the child in regards to this matter.

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Final decision

7. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because he is not a suitable representative for the child.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman