Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about how the Council handled reports of antisocial behaviour. This is because a further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.

The complaint

1. Mr X complained to the Council about the behaviour of his neighbours. Mr X said his neighbours were violent and abusive.
2. Mr X also complained the Council incorrectly shared data with a third party.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

3. We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’, which we call ‘fault’. We must also consider whether any fault has had an adverse impact on the person making the complaint, which we call ‘injustice’. We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We do not start or continue an investigation if we decide further investigation would not lead to a different outcome. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended, section 34(B))
4. We normally expect someone to refer the matter to the Information Commissioner if they have a complaint about data protection. However, we may decide to investigate if we think there are good reasons. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

5. I considered information provided by Mr X and the Council.
6. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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My assessment

7. Mr X and his family were placed in temporary accommodation by the Council.
8. Mr X complained to the Council about the behaviour of his neighbours. He also complained to the police.
9. The neighbouring household made counter allegations against Mr X. The police advised both parties not to interact with each other and took no further action.
10. The Council interviewed Mr X and the neighbour and determined that there was no basis to consider that Mr X or his family were at risk of harm.
11. The Council also carried out a review of the suitability of the temporary accommodation provided by the Council. The temporary accommodation was found to be suitable for Mr X and his family.
12. Mr X asked for a move to alternative accommodation to help to resolve the dispute. The Council approved the request. Mr X and his family were moved to alternative temporary accommodation three months after making the complaint.
13. I will not investigate this complaint about how the Council handled reports of antisocial behaviour. This is because a further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.
14. Mr X also complained the Council shared sensitive information with a third party. The Council investigated this complaint and found no evidence of any inappropriate disclosure of information. If Mr X wishes to complain further about this issue, he should refer this matter to the Information Commissioner as I cannot find good reason to investigate this issue.

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Final decision

15. We will not investigate this complaint about how the Council handled reports of antisocial behaviour. This is because further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman