Overview
In October 2008, the complainant (Mrs C) decided to assume responsibility for looking after her niece and nephew. Her complaint concerned the refusal by Midlothian Council (the Council) of her request for financial assistance in the form of kinship care allowance. Mrs C's complaint about that decision was considered but dismissed by the Council's Complaints Review Panel.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Council's Complaints Review Panel was not provided with adequate information on the children's situation to reach a decision (not upheld).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that the Council:
- (i) in the light of the circumstances of this case consider whether, when they are acting on behalf of an another social work authority, they provide a clear written statement of the limitations of their role and direct a carer to sources of further information.
The Council have accepted the recommendation and will act on it accordingly.