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Jersey's government may change the way it deals with complaints

The government are seeking 'as many views as possible' to create a better system.

Jersey's government is working to find better ways of resolving grievances, and is asking the public for their experiences of the current system.

Islanders are being asked to give their views on the government's way of dealing with complaints about public services.

It is part of a public consultation launched this week, led by Deputy Moz Scott, who was given the task by the Chief Minister. 

They are assessing the value of having a 'Public Services Ombudsman' (a public officer) that would replace the existing Jersey Complaints Panel. 

This idea has been mooted for many years, with the main motivation being to improve accessibility and privacy.

Last November, Ministers accepted a budget amendment compelling them to bring forward proposals in 2025.

READ: Plans for Public Services Ombudsman could be brought to States

Problems of the existing system have previously been highlighted. It has been found that poor communication and delays responding to complaints were further eroding public trust in Jersey's government.

READ: Government 'must do better' responding to complaints

Using feedback from islanders, the government wants to improve how it resolves complaints against providers of public services, with the ultimate goal of improving services.

Deputy Moz Scott has been tasked by the Chief Minister to create a new process.

Deputy Moz Scott is encouraging islanders to give their feedback:

“The quality and value of public services are very important to islanders and the way that complaints are handled is key to organisational improvement. 

“We are seeking as many views as possible, including from local organisations who deliver public services, external reviewing bodies and the legal community. 

“I would encourage all islanders who have experiences of, or a view on this matter, to participate in the public consultation to inform the work with their personal insight.”

Ministers have already committed to bringing proposals to the States Assembly this year.

The closing date for submissions is 6 May 2025.

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