OMBUDSMAN WATCHERS RESOURCE CENTRE

pmailkeey's letter to us about the Local Government Ombudsman (York)

Me v Birmingham City Council

1. I was in receipt of Council Tax Benefit.
2. For some reason it stopped.
3. I battled with the Council yet it ended up in the Birmingham City Council's 'Magistrates' Court) (as opposed to the proper Magistrates' Court)
4. I was ordered to pay alleged outstanding Council Tax - which I did.
5. Upon paying it, I was asked 'Why had I paid it' - as admitting guilt.
6. I contacted the LGO (Pat Thomas, Yorkshire).
7. LGO backed up the council (there's a surprise).
8. I threatened Birmingham City Council (BCC) with action in the High Court.
9. Miraculously, BCC sorted themselves out, refunded my money and gave me £250 as an ex-gratia peace offering.

10. Are you ready for this :)...

...I reported the NEW outcome to the LGO.

The LGO wrote back saying how pleased they were that they were able to help me.

pmailkeey