The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about how the Council completed a blue badge assessment for Mr X. That is because Mr X has appealed to a government minister about the Council’s decision therefore it is outside of our jurisdiction.
The complaint
Mr X complained about how the Council completed an assessment for a blue badge and its decision not to issue him a badge. He said the Council failed to explain that a telephone conversation was part of the assessment, and it did not tell him he could provide additional supporting information in time for the assessment. Because of this the assessment was flawed.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We cannot investigate a complaint if someone has appealed to a tribunal or a government minister or started court action about the matter. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(6), as amended)
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by the complainant and the Council.
I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
Mr X said that following the Council’s decision not to issue him a blue badge he appealed to a government minister. He said they had overturned the Council’s decision. As Mr X has appealed to a government minister, we will not investigate this complaint further as it is outside of our jurisdiction.
Final decision
We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because it is outside of our jurisdiction.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman