Wandsworth Council has been found at fault by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman for failing to secure alternative accommodation for a disabled woman, referred to as Miss X, for more than two and a half years after deeming her temporary property unsuitable. The council also failed to resolve a leak that left her unable to use her kitchen for over a year.
Ombudsman finds council at fault
The Ombudsman's report revealed that Wandsworth Council ruled Miss X's temporary accommodation unsuitable in September 2023, even before a leak was reported. This meant the council had an immediate duty to move her. Despite this, no suitable alternative was offered until January 2025, which Miss X declined as she said it was unsuitable and unaffordable.
Miss X reported the leak to the council in December 2024 and requested a move due to her disability in February 2025. She complained in March 2025 about the lack of progress, stating the leak left her unable to use her kitchen. The council inspected the property in June and October 2025 and arranged some work, but the leak remained unresolved, severely impacting her physical and mental health.
High impact on disabled resident
The Ombudsman's report stated: "I have considered that Miss X is disabled and has been deprived of adequate facilities to cook and prepare food as she has reported that she cannot use her kitchen. This issue would have had a high level of impact on her over a long time."
The council agreed to apologize to Miss X and pay her £6,300 for its failure to offer suitable alternative accommodation. Additionally, it will pay her an extra £350 per month from June 2025 for a maximum of six months, or until a suitable property is offered.
Council response
Wandsworth Council has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded. The Ombudsman's findings highlight systemic delays in addressing the needs of disabled residents in temporary accommodation.
