Sensitive information left in Council car park

5.10.00am GMT Mon 16th Nov 2009

Tory Bromley Council has been leaving confidential, sensitive documents next to recycling bins at the Civic Centre in unsecured plastic bags.

Amongst the documents that have been left for anyone to find was a restricted Police Tactical Assessment of crime in the borough including names of youngsters thought to be responsible for most anti-social behaviour in the Crays, as well as details of gang membership in Penge.

Cray Valley East Councillor Martin Curry had already complained to Council officials and the Tory Leader of Bromley Council before about the way the Council disposes of protected information. He said, "The Information Commissioner should investigate the way Bromley Council fails to safeguard sensitive personal data that has been entrusted to it."

Details of an applicant to be a Foster Carer's medical and social history, identified year 7 pupils drug taking habits , a named undercover shopping candidate, and details of a successful blue badge applicant, are amongst the documents that are being presented to the commissioner, with a request for action.

Liberal Democrat Leader Councillor David McBride added "I'm shocked by the lack of protection provided by Bromley Council for sensitive, highly personal information, given to them by local residents. I am also concerned that the Police and other partner organisations will not share important confidential information with Bromley if it is just going to be abandoned for anyone to find."