Legislation to create single public service ombudsman published

5 Dec 16
Draft legislation that will pave the way for the creation of a single public service ombudsman has been laid before parliament.

The draft bill sets out in detail the government’s proposals to bring together the responsibilities of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman and the Local Government Ombudsman to create a new organisation with strengthened governance and accountability. 

It is hoped that merging several existing ombudsman services will make it easier for the public to raise complaints, and give people greater confidence that their voices have been heard. Also, it should help to ensure lessons are learned from across the whole of government in order to improve services.

It will also refine and improve access to the ombudsman’s services, since complaints will be able to be made with or without the help of a representative and in a variety of media.

The Local Government Ombudsman and the Parliamentary and Health Ombudsman are backing the move.  

Cabinet Office minister Chris Skidmore said the government is determined to build a democracy that works for everyone – and in which everyone’s voice matters across the country.

He added: “That is why we are introducing a new Public Service Ombudsman to provide the public with greater confidence that their voices have been heard and their complaints taken seriously. Holding public services to account will ensure they are improved for everyone, and deliver a clear and secure democracy that everyone can have confidence in.”

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