Ombudsman adopts new name

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman has officially changed its name to the Public Service Ombudsman, in a move designed to make its role clearer to the public.

The new name took effect on 1st October, following research with members of the public, public sector organisations and parliamentarians. The research found that the organisation’s previous name could be confusing and did not clearly explain the breadth of its work.

Despite the change, the organisation’s role and independence remain unchanged.

The Public Service Ombudsman will continue to investigate complaints independently and impartially about the NHS, UK Government departments and other public bodies when people have been unable to resolve their concerns directly.

It will also continue to use evidence from complaints to identify lessons and help public services improve.

Public Service Ombudsman Paula Sussex CBE said: ‘This marks an important new chapter for our organisation and  our new strategy. Our new name better reflects the breadth of our work and our ambition to be a clear, recognisable and trusted voice for fairness, accountability and learning. 

‘The changes people will see are focused on our name and visual identity. Our service and the complaints we investigate remain unchanged. Our purpose is to provide a fair and independent service for people who have not been able to resolve a complaint, while using what we learn to help public services prevent harm, strengthen accountability and improve services for everyone.  

‘I am grateful to the organisations and partners we work with for their time and support in helping us make this change, particularly those updating their information and signposting to make sure the transition is as smooth as possible.’ 

The rebrand is part of a new five-year strategy, which sets out plans for the organisation to play a greater role in identifying wider problems across public services, sharing evidence and encouraging improvements.

The organisation is working with public sector bodies and other partners to update information and signposting so people can continue to find its services easily.

Its website, publications and other materials are being updated to reflect the new Public Service Ombudsman name.

Image: Mohamed_hassan