Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about the conduct of a social worker. The matters complained of are not separable from matters which form part of a court process.

The complaint

1. Mr X said a social worker ignored evidence he presented, lied, and made things up, amending matters to benefit her case. He said she had reacted inappropriately when he was distressed.

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

Back to top

My assessment

5. What Mr X told us, and the screenshots he sent, make it clear there is currently a dispute about the care of Mr X’s children that has or will be decided by a court. The social worker’s opinions about Mr X, and what she writes about Mr X and his family, will form part of the court process.

Back to top

Final decision

6. We cannot investigate Mr X’’s complaint because the matters he complains of are not separable from matters that form part of a court process.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman