Summary: We will use our discretion not to investigate this complaint about an unsuccessful application for a blue badge. This is because the Council will offer the complainant a face to face mobility assessment and reassess the application.

The complaint

1. The complainant, Mrs X complains the Council has not renewed her blue badge despite her health deteriorating. Mrs X wants a reassessment.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. 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. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended, section 34(B))
3. It is our decision whether to start, and when to end an investigation into something the law allows us to investigate. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 24A(6) and 34B(8), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

4. I considered information provided by Mrs X and the Council. I also considered our Assessment Code.

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My assessment

5. Mrs X applied for a new blue badge as the previous one was due to expire. Mrs X says she made a mistake on the form and incorrectly said she could walk 200 metres. Mrs X explained the mistake to the Council but doubts it was taken into account.
6. The Council assessed the application on the papers and by completing a mobility assessment by phone. The Council decided Mrs X does not qualify for a badge.
7. The documents show Mrs X has a range of medical conditions. She reported restricted mobility and a slow walking speed. It is unclear from the papers to what extent the Council considered that the walking distance of 200 metres had been reported in error.
8. I asked the Council to offer Mrs X a face to face mobility assessment. The Council agreed. This is a fair way to close the complaint as it will give Mrs X another chance to explain, and show, her waking ability and the Council will have an opportunity to observe how she walks. The Council will contact Mrs X about the arrangements.

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Final decision

9. We will not investigate this complaint because the Council will offer Mrs X a face to face mobility assessment.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman