The Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) is ‘independent and accountable’ according to an external evaluation of the watchdog.
The report concluded there is clear evidence the public have access to a ‘fair and effective’ route if they have complaints about local public services.
Local Government Ombudsman, Dr Jane Martin, said: ‘We welcome this report and its confirmation that we meet the important tests of independence, fairness, effectiveness, openness and accountability. It gives the public confidence that the service we provide ensures access to redress when public services let them down.’
The report also outlined how the LGO can develop further, and calls for a review of the legislative framework that governs the operation of the scheme.
Clive Betts, chair of the Communities and Local Government Committee, welcomed the report. He said: ‘I applaud the Local Government Ombudsman for acting on my committee’s recommendation and commissioning this independent report.’
Mr Betts said the Committee will conduct a further review later in the year.
