The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman investigates complaints from prisoners, those on probation and those held in immigration removal centres. The Ombudsman also investigates all deaths that occur among prisoners, immigration detainees and the residents of probation hostels (Approved Premises).
9 May 2013 - PPO structure and processes are currently under review and may therefore not be completely up to date on the website.
27 March 2013 - Learning from PPO investigations: End of life care (March 2013) has now been published. This learning lessons thematic review examines end of life care for prisoners between 2007 and 2012.
14 March 2013 - Learning lessons bulletin: Fatal incidents investigations issue 4 - Basic regime has now been published. This issue examines the use of basic regime as part of the incentives and earned privileges scheme in prison.
6 March 2013 - Learning lessons bulletin: Fatal incidents investigations issue 3 - Child deaths has now been published. This issue examines three recent deaths of children in custody.
28 February 2013 - Learning from PPO investigations: Adjudications complaints (March 2013) has now been published. This learning lessons thematic review examines adjudication complaints from prisoners in England and Wales received by the PPO.
15 February 2013 - Learning lessons bulletin: PPO investigations issue 1 - Sexual abuse in prisons was published today. This issue highlights the lessons that can be learned from PPO complaints and fatal incidents that involve a sexual element.
7 February 2013 - Learning lessons bulletin: Complaints investigations issue 2 was published today. This issue examines the lessons that can be learned from PPO complaints relating to the challenges that custodial settings place on an individual's ability to practise their religion.
5 February 2013 - Learning lessons bulletin: Fatal incidents investigations issue 2 was published today. This issue examines the lessons that can be learned about risk assessment and use of restraints for seriously ill and dying prisoners.
About the Ombudsman
Information about the Ombudsman, Nigel Newcomen CBE
Annual Report 2011-12 (PDF 0.14Mb)
Our latest annual report detailing our performance and progress.
Terms of Reference
The Ombudsman has agreed updated terms of reference with Ministry of Justice Ministers