Outcomes and remedies

There are several possible outcomes. If we do not find sufficient evidence of maladministration or service failure causing an adverse effect, or if we feel that the complaint is outside of jurisdiction we will write to you explaining why. We will of course consider any comments you may wish to make.

If we do find fault in the council’s actions that has affected your client, we can ask the council to take action to put things right. There are many ways of doing this. Examples include asking the council to:

• apologise
• make a payment in recognition of adverse effect
• carry out repairs
• take action that should have been taken before
• reconsider a decision that was not taken properly
• improve procedures
• hold a fresh school admissions appeal
• review housing benefit claim and pay benefit due

The Ombudsman will take into account your client’s views when deciding on the most appropriate remedy or settlement. Most of our decisions are made by letter. Sometimes, if resolution is not agreed or there is an issue of public interest, we issue formal reports. For more information on remedies see our Advice and guidance page.

Date Updated: 18/08/11