Our Work & Reports

Community sitting-out areas are not only places for residents to rest, but also accessible venues where neighbours can meet, interact and build social ties. The complainant used to exercise every morning near one such area, and for many years had been accustomed to resting and chatting with fellow morning exercisers on benches provided by the Home Affairs Department (“HAD”). However, as the facilities aged and deteriorated, HAD removed the old benches, but made no arrangements for replacements, leaving the complainant and other residents without their usual space to rest. Although the complainant raised his concerns with HAD, its staff did not specify whether new benches would be installed. Hence, he sought assistance from the Office.

After examining the case, the Office acted as an intermediary to facilitate mediation between the parties. During the mediation, the Office relayed the complainant’s views to HAD, including his wish to continue having the benches as a place to meet and interact with fellow community members, and that such facilities meet the community’s practical needs and offer convenience. Having considered his views, HAD decided to reinstall benches and proactively gave him the contact details of the officer-in-charge to follow up on the progress.

The complainant was highly satisfied with the mediation outcome and appreciated HAD’s responsiveness to public views and needs, which restored for residents a comfortable place to rest and get together.

**Adapted from a real case**