Housing Ombudsman Complaints Code - self-assessment
Compliance with the complaint handling code
Definition of a complaint
Does the complaints process use the following definition of a complaint: An expression of dissatisfaction, however made, about the standard of service, actions or lack of action by the organisation, its own staff, or those acting on its behalf, affecting an individual resident or group of residents?
No, but we do have a very similar one. Ours states: "A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction, however made, about the standard of service, action or lack of action by the council or its staff, affecting an individual customer or a group of customers.” This is because we’re a local authority rather than an organisation that deals solely with housing.
Does the policy have exclusions where a complaint will not be considered?
Yes
Are these exclusions reasonable and fair to residents?
Yes. They only apply where there are other routes available. For example, to request a housing repair or a where the resident has already been notified of a repair and the repair is awaiting action within the agreed timescale.
Accessibility
Are multiple accessibility routes available for residents to make a complaint?
Yes
Is the complaints policy and procedure available online?
Yes
Do we have a reasonable adjustments policy?
No but this is information is contained in our Equal Opportunities Policy
Do we regularly advise residents about our complaints process?
Yes
Complaints team and process
Is there a complaint officer or equivalent in post?
Yes
Does the complaint officer have autonomy to resolve complaints?
No
Does the complaint officer have authority to compel engagement from other departments to resolve disputes?
Yes
If there is a third stage to the complaints procedure are residents involved in the decision making?
Not applicable
Is any third stage optional for residents?
Not applicable
Does the final stage response set out residents’ right to refer the matter to the Housing Ombudsman Service?
Yes
Do we keep a record of complaint correspondence including correspondence from the resident?
Yes
At what stage are most complaints resolved?
Stage one
Communication
Are residents kept informed and updated during the complaints process?
Yes
Are residents informed of the landlord’s position and given a chance to respond and challenge any area of dispute before the final decision?
No, although there is sometimes informal dialogue with the responding officer outside of the complaints process.
Are all complaints acknowledged and logged within five days?
Yes, usually acknowledged and logged within two working days.
Are residents advised of how to escalate at the end of each stage?
Yes
What proportion of complaints are resolved at stage one?
2019/20: 78%
What proportion of complaints are resolved at stage two?
100%
What proportion of complaint responses are sent within code timescales?
- Stage one: 95%
- Stage one (with extension): 5%
- Stage two: 78% (within 10 working days) (this is based on a very low figure)
- Stage two (with extension): 22% (although still within 20 working days as stated in the code, but outside of our stated 10 working days) (only two complaints)
(Our stage two timescale is 10 working days, whereas the code allows 20 working days, so much better than the code.)
Where timescales have been extended did we have good reason?
Yes
Where timescales have been extended did we keep the resident informed?
Yes
What proportion of complaints do we resolve to residents’ satisfaction?
This is difficult to say, but as we had no complaints with the Housing Ombudsman in 2019/20, I would suggest it’s 100%.
Co-operation with Housing Ombudsman Service
Were all requests for evidence responded to within 15 days?
Not applicable in 2019/20. Previously, yes it was.
Where the timescale was extended did we keep the Ombudsman informed?
Not applicable
Fairness in complaint handling
Are residents able to complain via a representative throughout?
Yes, with appropriate permission for us to deal with the representative.
If advice was given, was this accurate and easy to understand?
Not applicable
How many cases did we refuse to escalate?
None
What was the reason for the refusal?
Not applicable
Did we explain our decision to the resident?
Decision for what? Not escalating, or for the complaint outcome?
Outcomes and remedies
Where something has gone wrong, are we taking appropriate steps to put things right?
Yes
Continuous learning and improvement
What improvements have we made as a result of learning from complaints?
Ended housing repairs contracts, improved processes
How do we share these lessons with:
- Residents - These are being considered
- The board/governing body? Annual report to senior managers and councillors
Has the code made a difference to how we respond to complaints?
Not currently, this is being reviewed.
What changes have we made?
Not applicable
For further details on the complaints handling process and self-assessment form, please visit complaints handling code (housing-ombudsman.org.uk)
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- How to send us feedback or raise an issue: Housing service - feedback and issues
Last updated: 22/01/2021 13:25
