‘Data breach’ sparks FCHO investigation

FIRST Choice Homes (FCHO) has been accused of committing a major data protection blunder by publishing the personal details of its board members.

The housing association has launched an internal investigation after a former member of its independent scrutiny panel complained he had found sensitive information on members of its executive governing body, including mobile phone and National Insurance numbers.

The Oldham tenant, who wishes to remain anonymous, alleges the Data Protection Act breach also included home addresses, emergency contacts and next of kin.

The man said he was horrified when he was looking for minutes of a recent meeting - and found the minutes of confidential meetings instead, links from which led to personal areas for each of the main board members.

The man said: “It’s a very poor decision to post such intrusive details. This is a careless and fundamental error.”

The housing association, which manages around 12,000 homes in Oldham, said it is treating the allegation “very seriously” and an investigation continues.