Summary
Mike Barley from Grimsby faced significant financial difficulties after missing a £101.71 council tax payment while hospitalized following a motorbike accident. His debt quickly escalated as he was unable to work due to his injuries, resulting in his bills eventually totaling around £6,000 due to added fees and penalties.
Key Facts
- Mike Barley missed a council tax bill of £101.71 while in the hospital after a motorbike accident.
- The accident left him unable to work, and he was on sick pay of £90 a week.
- The local council sent a payment plan demanding he pay the rest of the year's tax upfront, totaling about £1,000.
- When debts are unpaid in England, councils can demand payment of the entire year's bill and engage bailiffs.
- Additional fees include £75 for the initial bailiff letter and £235 if bailiffs visit to take or sell possessions.
- Mr. Barley's debt ballooned to about £6,000, partly due to bailiffs' involvement.
- His home was repossessed, and his relationship ended under the financial strain.
- Mr. Barley still has around £1,700 in debt, including £700 in bailiffs' fees.
