Managing complaints: Focusing on users and non-users of the system

Creutzfeldt, N. 2020. Managing complaints: Focusing on users and non-users of the system. in: Kirkham, R. and Gill, C. (ed.) A Manifesto for Ombudsman Reform Palgrave Macmillan.

Chapter titleManaging complaints: Focusing on users and non-users of the system
AuthorsCreutzfeldt, N.
EditorsKirkham, R. and Gill, C.
Abstract

This chapter is about the citizens’ voice in an ombuds process. I argue that a reformed Public Services Ombud needs to have mechanisms in place to integrate users’ views into the decision-making process. This will benefit citizens’ experience of the complaint process and foster legitimacy and trust in the ombuds institution. It will also help educate the public about an ombud’s responsibilities. Taking users’ views into account in the design and management of ombuds will assist in getting the best out of the system. Informed by empirical evidence, my chapter focuses on three topics: (1) procedural fairness; (2) managing expectations; (3) systemic learning, data collection and reporting. I conclude with practical recommendations for an amended ombuds bill, which better integrates user-views.

KeywordsUser voice · Procedural fairness · Managing expectations · Systemic learning
Book titleA Manifesto for Ombudsman Reform
Year2020
PublisherPalgrave Macmillan
Publication dates
Published30 May 2020
ISBN9783030406110
9783030406127

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