On the 28 June 2014 Malcolm David BURGE (the deceased) died at Southmead Hospital, Bristol having earlier that day set light to himself and his car in a car park at the Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

At the Inquest evidence was given that the deceased owed Newham Council (the Council) £800.69 in respect of overpaid housing benefit and council tax benefit.

The Court understand that the deceased had never before owed money or been in debt but due to a number of factors in particular his age, lack of mental awareness, inability to both understand and use the internet and modern telephone procedures communicate his problems to the Council and as a result took the drastic action that brought about his death.

Before any proceedings are taken by the Council for recover money from any person resident or formerly resident in their area an Officer of the Council should attempt to establish whether or not the debtor is both fully aware of the proceedings and if either because of his/her age or mental ability appears unable to agree a plan to repay the monies attempt to see the debtor in person to explain what is involved and otherwise assist the debtor or ensure that he/she visits some responsible organisation such as the Citizen's Advice Bureau.