Public bodies in sorry state over apologies for errors

Sorry may be the hardest word, but it is also the smartest one for public bodies keen to stop errors and poor service escalating into protracted disputes, the Ombudsman has said.

Peter Tyndall has issued a guide on ‘making a meaningful apology’ and is urging government departments, local authorities, the HSE, and other public service providers to heed its advice.

“Many people who complain to my office about public services tell me that what they are looking for is for the service provider to acknowledge that something went wrong and to receive a meaningful apology,” he said.