Angus Gold - Social work: your rights

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Social work: your rights

Free advice and support for anyone who believes that their rights have been infringed or ignored during their dealings with Social Work

For further information call Angus Council Social Work Department on 01307 474848

Angus Council is commited to safeguarding the rights of children, young people, adults and those people acting on their behalf who have contact with Social Work. That's why we offer a Clients' Rights Service.

This Service provides free confidential advice, representation, advocacy, counselling and support to anyone who believes that their rights have been infringed or ignored during this contact. It is also available to those who have contact with Home Care Services, Day Care Services, Resource Centres for children and adults or any other services provided by Social Work or other parties on behalf of Angus Council Social Work and Health.

How do I know what my rights are?

It depends on what you may be concerned about. If in doubt always ask your Social Worker or Care Manager first. If you do not receive a response or if you are not satisfied with their response then contact the Clients' Rights Service.

Why is there a Clients' Rights Service?

Angus Council Social Work and Health believes in, and is committed to fostering a culture of rights and ensuring that anyone who has contact with any of its services is satisfied about their quality. But, should anyone believe this not to be the case, their concerns will be taking seriously without being disadvantaged for speaking out.

When is the Service available?

It is available whenever you believe that Social Work is ignoring or infringing your rights.

What can the Service do for me?

The Clients' Rights Service can represent your views, give you advice, listen to your concerns, act on your behalf, support you at Social Work Reviews whether in Child Care or Community Care, and make sure that your views are heard at Children's Hearings and Social Work Reviews. They can even just be there to listen to you if you do not feel like talking to anyone else.
The Service also ensures that people who have contact with Social Work receive a service in line with their guidelines, procedures and standards, in addition to Angus Council's policies, Scottish and UK legislation and International protocols.

Does the Service deal with complaints?

Yes. The Clients' Rights Service deals with complaints and fully supports anyone who wants to make a statutory complaint about Social Work. We have a Complaints Officer who can be contacted on 01307 473180.

Can I see my Social Work file?

Most of the time it is possible for you to have access to your Social Work file. However, there are instances when this is not possible. If you wish further information about how to access your Social Work file ask your Social Worker or Care Manager.Alternatively, complete the 'Access to your Social Work Records' card available from all Social Work offices in Angus, and post it to the Principal Officer, Quality and Improvement.