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 now awarded a badge.
The complaint
The complainant, Mr X, complains the Council refused his application for a Blue Badge.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’. In this statement, I have used the word fault to refer to these. We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We may decide not to start an investigation if we are satisfied with the actions an organisation has taken or proposes to take. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(7), as amended)
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by Mr X and the Council. This includes an update from the Council. I also considered our Assessment Code.
My assessment
Mr X complained to us about the Council’s decision not to award a Blue Badge.
Since complaining to us, and before we had taken any action, the Council reviewed the case and decided to issue a badge.
Final decision
We will not investigate this complaint because the Council has awarded a Blue Badge to Mr X.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman