Decision details

The Committee received a fact finding report which outlined actions taken to resolve a complaint informally which had subsequently been unsuccessful. Members were informed that the complaint had two aspects – failure to follow procedures and breach of confidentiality.

Regarding the procedural issues, members felt that whilst these could have been reported in a more controlled manner, working groups operated on a relatively informal basis and as such it was occasionally difficult to maintain a formal reporting process. They did, however, acknowledge that all involved should have been aware of the remit of the group.

With regard to the breach in confidentiality, it was felt that it would be difficult to establish to level of awareness of the matter and therefore whether confidentiality had been breached.

Members were satisfied that the subject member had learnt from the experiences and had also sought training on her role. Members felt that the parish council should be recommended to seek further training as relevant.

Notwithstanding the subjects of the complaints, members noted that there seemed to be a breakdown in personal relationships within the parish council which, it appeared, had contributed to the issues that had arisen and had also contributed to the making of the complaints. It was felt that this breakdown in communication would be detrimental to any investigation which could be carried out into the complaints.

On the motion of Councillor Witherford, seconded by Councillor Cope, it was

RESOLVED – no further action be taken and the parish council be RECOMMENDED to seek training on relevant procedures and protocols.