Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Grimsby Man Struggles with Council Tax Debt After Accident

10/9/2025

36 6

Summary

Story summary

Mike Barley, 26, of Grimsby, faced a £1,000 council tax debt after a March 2021 accident.
He was hospitalized for a month and on £90-a-week sick pay; the council has a £100,000 hardship fund.
After notifying the council, he faced an upfront payment plan for the rest of the year; bailiffs issued threatening letters as the council reviews debt-enforcement practices.

1 of 1

Story summary

Mike Barley, 26, of Grimsby, faced a £1,000 council tax debt after a March 2021 accident.
He was hospitalized for a month and on £90-a-week sick pay; the council has a £100,000 hardship fund.
After notifying the council, he faced an upfront payment plan for the rest of the year; bailiffs issued threatening letters as the council reviews debt-enforcement practices.