Overview
The complainant (Mr C) complained about the way Orkney Islands Council (the Council) handled his request to reimburse his (and his wife's) travel and accommodation expenses after he turned down a job with them.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Council failed properly to handle Mr C's request to reimburse his travel and accommodation expenses after he turned down a job offer (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Council reimburse Mr C's reasonable travel and accommodation expenses. She also recommends that any correspondence sent to candidates calling them for interview either makes specific references to the circumstances when such expenses are not paid or, alternatively, refers to the enclosure, 'Interview Expenses'.
The Council have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.