support plan legal

[Chaseonthecase]

my son is in a small supported living arrangement. His support plan is not being followed, despite repeated complaints by me. Does this document carry any weight legally or is it just a guide and if not followed… well that’s just hard luck on the person it relates to. I’m thinking of taking legal advice as so far all my complaints to provider and social services are being ignored. (I haven’t complained officially although my concerns have been put in writing). Any assistance appreciated.

[Cakes2695]

I'm sorry to read this .. You now need to make it official you have tried to engage but they don't appear to be listening to concerns or your son's needs. Escalate it to the head of complaints at your social service department the higher the better. Have you seen or been given a copy of your Son's service specification ? Ask for a copy ASAP. This document will contain your Son's requirements /needs if Social Services haven't shared with the care team they this is where the problem could have occurred.. EG If they don't match this could be a reason they aren't doing the job ! If the spec your social worker sent them isn't being followed they can be held to account and you can get CQC involved. Ask for a change of staff ( DEMAND )

[Steve__]

Sorry to hear this, it's a difficult situation. In my experience it's worth a try to ask reasonably and then more firmly, and then if ignored, then they are more infuenced by comments from whoever is paying the bill. Ideally , if social services are in charge, they intervene, but they're overworked and often new in role, and without scrutiny an unhelpful home can default to inaction if they can. If you can get hold of some advice before your next approach, such as an independent social worker, then you can know what avenues might work best, and want key phrases/actions might help more.

At times, a friendly informal relationship with specific staff members can help... you get to know what's actually going on and the better staff can be wonderful, if fleeting.

Depuyship can help, but has been made more tricky to get recently. If the care is poor at present, Depuyship might be slightly earlier to get, but always costly and not guaranteed.

So, do be tenacious! But get some advice on the best way to be tenacious so your energies are well spent!

[BenjiB]

I’d put it in writing to social services and make it clear you will be taking it to the CQC if things don’t change.