Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

What if I am unhappy about one of your decisions or want to appeal against it?

Answer:

If you wish to query a decision you can always contact us or visit one of our Customer Service Centres. This is normally the best thing to do first as mistakes can be quickly put right.

After this the rules allow you to formally challenge most decisions that directly affect you within one month of that decision being made. You can request a reconsideration of the original decision and/or make a formal appeal. The Appeals page has much more information about the process, and leaflets are also available to help you. You will also find an appeals form which the benefit claimant must sign and return to the council.

Appeals made to the council that cannot be resolved to your satisfaction are sent to the Tribunal Service for consideration by a legally qualified professional who will look at your reasons for disputing the decision and decide if the council has acted within the rules.

You do not have to attend a Tribunal hearing unless you wish to, but they are typically held at Hereford Shire Hall and normally last less than one hour and will consist of a judge, a clerk and a representative from the council.

Even if the Tribunal finds against you, there are additional legal avenues you can pursue and you can ask the Tribunal Service for more details about these if necessary.