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Authority accepts fine
A COUNCIL has said it "fully accepts" a £16,000 fine for delaying payments to a woman who needed round-the-clock care.
The woman, who suffers from motor neurone disease, took her case to the Local Government Ombudsman, after Ealing Council took more than a year to up her care payments.
She applied for an increase from the council's adult services department in March 2005, but did not receive the improved care package until May 2006, despite her being unable to speak and needing 24-hour a day care.
In his report, Ombudsman Tony Redmond said: "The failure to deal properly with the application denied her access to additional funding that would have made a significant difference to her quality of life.
"She and members of her family suffered distress and anxiety as a result."
He fined the council £16,700, to be paid to the victim, for maladministration.
Neelum Baines, a spokesman for the council, said: "We fully accept the findings of the ombudsman.
"We unreservedly apologise to the family for the way this matter has been handled and for the distress it has caused them.
"It should be noted that since the time of this incident in March 2005, the council has made significant improvements to its adults services department and the way direct payments are administered.
"The council constantly reviews the way it provides services to ensure that we improve the services we provide."
5:27pm Tuesday 20th May 2008
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CommentPosted by: Stevey, Northolt on 10:28pm Tue 20 May 08
Where do we vote for the sterling employees of the council again?
Where do we vote for the sterling employees of the council again?
Posted by: Andrew, Ealing on 1:26pm Wed 21 May 08
Is it the council being fined or the taxpayer?
Is it the council being fined or the taxpayer?
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