Care Act review – incomplete and inaccurate

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has recently found a local authority at fault over a Care Act review. The Ombudsman stated: ‘Statutory guidance requires Councils to keep care and support plans under regular review, at least annually. In this case, the Council issued a review assessment in May 2024. It has accepted this was completed without management oversight, was incomplete, and contained inaccuracies. It also accepted that the associated support plan was not shared with Ms Y or Ms X. This is fault, which caused avoidable uncertainty and frustration for Ms X.’

In addition, the Ombudsman found: ‘The Council completed a further assessment in February 2025, but this was not shared until May 2025. Following Ms X’s comments on this, a reviewed and finalised assessment and support plan were not provided until May 2026. I consider this a significant delay, causing Ms X uncertainty throughout. This is faut.’

The Ombudsman directed the local authority to apologise and pay £200 to Ms X (the complainant).

Download the report: https://www.lgo.org.uk/decisions/adult-care-services/assessment-and-care-plan/25-013-338

Edge deliver a wide range of courses on the Care Act for adult social care staff. In addition, we offer free training for families and carers on the Care Act. Details from: https://www.edgetraining.org.uk/