0800 34 34 24

57 findings available

PIP and the value of further evidence

Our investigation found that the Department for Communities and Capita failed to properly obtain and use all relevant medical information to help them assess claims for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefit.

Own Initiative Investigation

Ombudsman critical of council’s handling of planning application

We found that failings by Ards and North Down Borough Council resulted in delays to a golf club’s planning application.

Investigation Report

Department agrees to rectify payment error

Case Summary

Department drops request for return of benefits payment

Case Summary

Request for rates bill dropped after Ombudsman intervention

Case Summary

Council apologises to complainant over handling of planning application

We reminded Mid and East Antrim Borough Council of its record keeping responsibilities following our investigation of a complaint brought by an MLA.  We also asked it to consider developing a formal policy around the role of public representatives in the planning process.

Investigation Report

Investigation into Council’s enforcement action

We investigated a complaint about the way Belfast City Council dealt with claims of a breach of planning control.

Investigation Report

Investigation into a complaint about the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority

The Ombudsman has found that an RQIA inspection and subsequent report was completed according to relevant standards, but that it should have taken further steps to provide the registered manager of a care home with a copy of the draft report so that she could comment on its factual accuracy.

Investigation Report

Invest NI communicated appropriately with complainant during grant application

A man’s complaint that Invest NI failed to provide his company with adequate guidance and support during its application for a Research and Development Grant has not been upheld.

Investigation Report

Investigation into the handling of a planning application by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council failed to provide an applicant with the reasons why its Planning Committee deferred a decision on his planning application.  An Ombudsman's report was also critical of excessive delays when responding to the applicant's concerns.

Investigation Report