Summary: Mrs D complained on behalf of her adult daughter about the Council not resolving anti-social behaviour. We ended the investigation because the Representative is unsuitable.

The complaint

1. The complainant (whom I refer to as Ms D) is represented by her parent (whom I refer to as Mrs D). Mrs D says the Council has not resolved anti-social behaviour against Ms D.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’. In this statement, I have used the word 'fault' to refer to these. We must also consider whether any fault has had an adverse impact on the person making the complaint. I refer to this as ‘injustice’. We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We may decide not to continue with an investigation where the Representative of the complainant is not considered suitable. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

3. The Council notified us about court proceedings against Mrs D. We have considered matters and decided Mrs D is an unsuitable Representative to act on behalf of Ms D. Ms D is still able to pursue the complaint herself if she notifies the Ombudsman or can appoint an alternative Representative.

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Final decision

4. I have ended the investigation. The representative is not suitable.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman