Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about compensation following problems with recycling collections. This is because the problem has been resolved.

The complaint

1. The complainant, whom I refer to as Mr X, says the Council should increase the compensation to £150 after he had eight months of missed recycling collections.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’. In this statement, I have used the word fault to refer to these. We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We may decide not to start an investigation if we are satisfied with the actions an organisation has taken or proposes to take. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(7), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by Mr X and the Council. This includes an update from the Council and Mr X. I also considered our Assessment Code.

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My assessment

4. The Council upheld Mr X’s complaint after he had eight months of missed recycling collections. The Council apologised and awarded £50 for his time and trouble.
5. Mr X did not think £50 was sufficient to cover the inconvenience caused by the long period of disruption. Mr X thought he should get £150.
6. In response to my enquiries the Council said it has increased the compensation to £150.

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Final decision

7. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because the problem has been resolved and Mr X has received the outcome he hoped for.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman