The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) is expanding its outreach efforts to better serve rural communities. Recognising the unique challenges faced by individuals and organisations in rural areas, PHSO is eager to extend its reach and provide valuable resources through a series of newly developed workshops.

About the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman

The PHSO is an independent body responsible for investigating complaints that individuals feel have not been resolved satisfactorily by the NHS in England or UK Government departments and other public organisations. Their work ensures that citizens receive fair treatment and helps to identify systemic issues that can lead to improvements in public services.

Why Complaints Matter

Navigating the complaints process can often be a daunting task, especially for those in rural areas where access to information and resources may be limited. Complaints are a crucial mechanism for holding public services accountable and ensuring justice. However, the complexity of the process can deter individuals from raising their concerns.

Become a Complaints Champion

PHSO has developed the Complaints Champions Workshops—a series of free, 90-minute online workshops designed to empower those working in the voluntary and civil society sectors. These workshops aim to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to support their service users in navigating the complaints process.

During the workshop, attendees will learn about:
- The role of the Ombudsman and common barriers to complaining.
- How advocacy can support communities and service users.
- How PHSO can collaborate with your organisation to promote access to justice.

Get Involved

If you are interested in participating in a workshop or arranging a bespoke session for your organisation, you can sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/PtQ7uaxuAC

Additionally, PHSO is keen to hear from organisations that have identified issues related to maladministration or barriers to justice. By working together, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of location, has access to fair treatment and justice.

To learn more about the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman and the vital work they do, please visit their website: https://www.ombudsman.org.uk