The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about an unsuccessful application for a Blue Badge. This is because the Council has awarded a badge and there is insufficient evidence of fault by the Council.
The complaint
The complainant, whom I refer to as Ms X, complains that, despite having multiple medical conditions, the Council refused her application for a Blue Badge. Ms X wants the Council to award a badge.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’, which we call ‘fault’. We must also consider whether any fault has had an adverse impact on the person making the complaint, which we call ‘injustice’. We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We do not start an investigation if we decide there is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended, section 34(B))
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by Ms X and the Council. I also considered our Assessment Code.
My assessment
Ms X applied for a Blue Badge. The Council decided she is not eligible.
In response to my enquiries the Council said it had approved the application on appeal.
I will not start an investigation because the Council awarded a badge as part of the appeals process.
Final decision
We will not investigate this complaint because the Council awarded a badge and there is insufficient evidence of fault by the Council.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman