The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about missed refuse collections because the problem has been resolved.
The complaint
The complainant, whom I refer to as Mr X, complained about repeated missed bin collections since August 2021. Mr X wanted regular collections.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
The Ombudsman investigates 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 an investigation if the problem has been resolved. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6))
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by Mr X and the Council. This includes an email from Mr X saying the problem has been resolved. I also considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
Final decision
We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because the matter has been resolved.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman