Summary: The Ombudsman cannot investigate this complaint alleging a social worker lied in a court report. This is because it has been used in court proceedings.

The complaint

1. The complainant, who I shall refer to as Miss X, says social workers lied in a report and told lies in court.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We cannot investigate a complaint about the start of court action or what happened in court. (Local Government Act 1974, Schedule 5/5A, paragraph 1/3, as amended)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

3. I have considered the complaint information provided by Miss X. I shared my draft view with her.

Back to top

What I found

4. Miss X is complaining about a report that was relied on in court proceedings. She says her child can only now see her in a contact centre.
5. As outlined in paragraph two the Ombudsman cannot investigate any aspect of this complaint as it concerns matters determined in Court.

Back to top

Final decision

6. The Ombudsman will not investigate this complaint as it concerns matters that have already been decided at court.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman