William Eichler 17 October 2024

Council apologises after ‘vulnerable’ man left homeless

Council apologises after ‘vulnerable’ man left homeless image
Image: chrisdorney / Shutterstock.com.

Tower Hamlets Council has apologised after it left a vulnerable man with significant care needs unsupported when he was made homeless.

The man, who has disabilities and complex health needs, told the council he was being made homeless and subsequently received a care package.

However, an investigation by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman found no evidence the adult social care team had liaised with the housing team while preparing the package.

As a result of this lack of joined-up support, the man spent several weeks sleeping in his car before eventually ending up in hospital.

Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, Ms Amerdeep Somal, said: ‘This case is an awful example of the dire consequences of council departments not working together properly to support the most vulnerable members of their communities.’

Responding to the Ombudsman’s report, a Tower Hamlets Council spokesperson said the council accepted the findings and apologised.

They added: ‘These findings came at a time when we were facing unprecedented demand for housing and homelessness services. This is not an excuse, we can and will do better to provide services to people who are homeless with complex care needs.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Revenues and Benefits Administration Officer

West Northamptonshire Council
£26914 - £27781
The Revenues and Benefits Administration Officer at West Northamptonshire Council provides essential administrative support across the Revenues and Benefits team. The role involves managing emails, indexing documents, raising orders and supporting financi Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Strategic Commissioning Manager (Markets Team Manager)

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Drive real change in your community - shape the future of careDrive real change in your community - shape the future of careAt the Royal Borough of Ke England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Social Worker - Family Finding, Adoption Mid Essex

Essex County Council
£34902.0000 - £50081.0000 per annum
Social Worker - Family Finding, Adoption Mid EssexPermanent, Full Time£34,902 to £50,081 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Sheltered Housing Officer

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
£33291 - £34291 per annum
Support residents to live independently in safe, welcoming homes - making every day easier, safer and more connected.Support residents to live indepen England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Team Leader

Durham County Council
Grade 8 £32,597 - £36,363
Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner