01/07/2021 – Our general enquiries telephone number changed to 0300 369 0689. All calls to our old number are diverted for a limited period. For more information read our latest update.

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Blog

12
Jul
2019

Demystifying the role of the Assisting Officer

The importance of the Assisting Officer (AO) in the Service complaints process shouldn’t be underestimated. An AO is a key person for all involved: complainants, respondents and complaints handlers. In this blog, we will look at three important aspects concerning the role of an AO and provide you with some top tips! Appointment of the […]

19
Jun
2019

What the Ombudsman can and can’t do: a quick guide

Have you ever wondered why the Ombudsman does some things but not others? Why she only deals with Service complaints and not all complaints? Read for more information

07
Jun
2019

No Ombudsman is an Island: The importance of collaborative working

On 21st – 22nd May, the Ombudsman Association (OA) held their annual conference. Following this event, we reflect on the importance of collaborative working and how it benefits SCOAF.

18
Apr
2019

4 tips for improving communication in the complaints process

Being able to communicate clearly and effectively is one of the most important skills someone can have. In order for the complaints process to work as effectively as possible, it is important that both the complainant and the complaint handler are communicating clearly. But although it is an important skill, it isn’t an easy one. In this blog, we look at 4 simple tips that can help improve communication.

11
Apr
2019

Efficient, effective and fair: What does it mean and why is it important?

The Ombudsman’s Annual Report 2018 was laid in Parliament today. Under the legislation, the Ombudsman is required to make an assessment in her report about whether the Service complaints system is efficient, effective and fair.

28
Feb
2019

Your responsibilities as a complainant

We often talk about the responsibilities of our office and the Services have to ensure the complaints system works properly. But, did you know that complainants also have responsibilities?

07
Feb
2019

Information v Advice: What’s the difference?

When we ask people how we can improve our service, they often say by providing advice. However, this is something that we cannot do – we can only provide information. Read on to find out why……. If you look at the list of things we do at the office of the Service Complaints Ombudsman, […]

16
Jan
2019

Reasonable adjustment: Making it easier for you to access our Services

If you want to know what reasonable adjustment means and how the Office of the Service Complaints Ombudsman can change the way we do things to help you, then read on……..

Reasonable Adjustment - One Size Does Not Fit All

14
Nov
2018

Anti-Bullying Week

November 12th-16th is National Anti-Bullying Week. It is a week dedicated to talking about the effects of bullying and strategies to stop it. As the Service Complaints Ombudsman for the Armed Forces, many of the complaints dealt with by my office concern allegations of bullying.

31
Oct
2018

Black History Month – A Look Back

The end of October brings Black History Month to a close for another year. What began in 1987 as a niche interest in direct response to the climate at the time is now a nationally recognised event, celebrated and endorsed across the political divide and by the Royal Navy, British Army and RAF.