Contact: David Hinxman, Head of Democratic Services, ext 7339; e-mail [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1. This report comprises the annual return of complaints for the Chief Executive's Department for 2004/05.

2. Complaints

2.1. There have been eight complaints in respect of services provided by the Chief Executive's Department in 2004/05 and two concerning individual members of staff. The latter have been dealt with by line managers.

2.2. Of the eight service related complaints:

· One concerned a land transaction where external constraints prevailed against early completion. Subsequently a letter of appreciation was received.

· One concerned historic information on Hantsweb concerning Members allowances. The Constitution shows only the current scheme; the historic information is contained in committee minutes was provided immediately.

· One concerned delay in replying to an inquiry, the delay being due to staff sickness.

· One concerned the alleged unauthorised release of confidential company data. This was found not to be the case.

· One concerned accessibility issues on grounds of ethnic origin vis à vis the Civic Service to which a positive response has been given.

· One concerned arrangements for the closure of Buriton bridleway no 40 for an auto-jumble and vintage show to which a detailed response was given

· One concerned election posters on County Council land and these were promptly removed.

· One concerned a decision by the Independent Education Appeal Panel by an unsuccessful appellant. The Appeal Panel's decision had been properly made.

2.3 None of the complaints has proceeded beyond departmental level. Each has been addressed promptly and resolved. The complaints show no trend. They were spread randomly across the wide range of services provided by the Chief Executive's Department.

3. Compliments

3.1 It is pleasing to report the receipt of 15 letters of thanks and appreciation during the year from the community, primarily from people attending Royal visits and other high profile events with others acknowledging the high quality and efficiency of the department's staff.

3.2 Internal monitoring shows a high level of satisfaction from the department's internal and agency customers across the board.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the report be noted.

Section 100D Local Government Act 1972 Background Papers

NB the list excludes:

1 Published works.

2 Documents which disclosure exempt or confidential information as defined in the Act.