Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about the decision to end the complainant’s council tax support. This is because the complainant has appealed to the Valuation Tribunal. The complaint is therefore outside our jurisdiction with no discretion to investigate.

The complaint

1. The complainant, Mr X, complained the Council ended his council tax support when his return to the country was delayed due to COVID-19. Mr X wants the support reinstated and the Council to refund him.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. 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)
3. The Valuation Tribunal deals with appeals against decisions on council tax liability and council tax support or reduction.

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How I considered this complaint

4. I considered information provided by the complainant and the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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Final decision

5. We cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint. This is because he has appealed to the Valuation Tribunal and so the complaint is outside our jurisdiction.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman