Mr A complained about the actions of Social Services concerning his children, following allegations made by both him and his former partner about each other’s behaviour.
The Ombudsman decided not to formally investigate the complaint. The concerns raised by Mr A had already been comprehensively considered at the independent stage of the statutory Social Services complaints procedure. This had identified some shortcomings in information sharing and communication, and the recommendations in relation to these aspects of the complaint had been carried out.
The Ombudsman was concerned that the ongoing arrangements for communication and information sharing with Mr A, as someone with parental responsibility, should be clarified in writing. The Council therefore agreed to confirm to Mr A in writing, within one month: • The level and frequency of verbal updates to Mr A • How Mr A will be able to input into any reviews of his children’s care plans • Confirmation of how Mr A can communicate/contact Social Services.