Overview
The complainants (Mr and Mrs C) raised concerns regarding the processes followed, in assessing Mr C, by Clinical Psychology and the Specialist Sexual Abuse Service (the Service) within Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Board (the Board). They were unhappy with the content of the reports that were produced and with the fact Mr C was not asked to provide clarity on aspects of the reports which they felt were inaccurate and misleading.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the process of the assessment within Clinical Psychology was inappropriate in that Mr C was denied the opportunity of providing supporting information and, as a result, the reports produced were inaccurate and Mr C's reputation was damaged (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) review their procedures to ensure that there are clear triggers in place for referring child safety concerns for prompt assessment by individuals with the relevant expertise;
- (ii) ensure that all mental health staff receive appropriate training relating to their child protection duties and obligations. This should be routinely covered in clinical supervision and staff should have access to the relevant guidance;
- (iii) highlight to all mental health staff the importance of explicit record-keeping surrounding child protection. This should include not only the reasoning for decisions but the rationale underpinning them and all verbal referrals should be followed up using the appropriate inter-agency form;
- (iv) ensure that, where appropriate, child protection concerns are communicated to the patients concerned prior to making a referral. When not informing patients, clear and specific reasons for not doing so should be recorded;
- (v) ensure that patients are notified of the outcome of mental health assessments as soon as is practicable; and
- (vi) remind mental health and complaint handling staff of the importance of taking steps to clarify any uncertainty at an early stage, particularly where a child safety concern may exist.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.