A disabled teenager was left unable to use their wheelchair at home after major surgery because of delays and failings by a London council, a watchdog has found.
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman said the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham failed to properly assess the family’s housing needs, leaving them in unsuitable accommodation for almost 18 months.
The teenager, who cannot walk, underwent surgery before the council completed an Occupational Therapy (OT) assessment requested by their hospital.
After the operation, they requested a hoist for transfers, but their home did not have enough space for the equipment to be stored or used safely.
The Ombudsman also found the council failed to consider whether the family could be legally homeless after being told the property was unsuitable.
It further criticised the authority for failing to explain a housing decision properly, not informing the family of their right to appeal and taking eight months to respond to a formal complaint.
‘This case is a stark reminder of what can happen when processes fail a vulnerable child,’ Amerdeep Clarke of the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, said.
‘he teenager underwent major surgery and came home to a property where they could not use their wheelchair, could not access their medical equipment, and could not move around with the dignity and independence they deserved.’
‘There are clear lessons here for all councils,’ Clarke continued. ‘The legal duty to consider whether a family may be homeless is triggered at a low threshold.
‘It does not require a formal application or a visit to a specific department. OT assessments must be completed without undue delay, particularly where a person’s medical needs are pressing. And when residents raise complaints, councils must respond fully and on time.’
The council has agreed to apologise to the family and pay them £1,200. It will also meet with them to discuss their housing options.
Clarke added: ‘I welcome the fact that Barking and Dagenham has accepted all of our recommendations. The action plans they have committed to, on homelessness and OT waiting times, should prevent similar injustice in the future.’
Image: G + L/UnSplash
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