UK | Conference on a human rights approach to the work of Ombudsmen

Pressure on the work of Ombudsman offices across the world continues to grow with increasing multi-dimensional complaints, many of which include human rights issues, being brought before them. For all bodies working in the investigation spectrum, the need to develop their working practices and to equip staff with the necessary skills and resources to undertake their increasingly demanding work effectively, has never been more critical.

Recognising the challenges facing similar organisations, the Northern Ireland Ombudsman (NIO) and the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), with funding support from the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), have undertaken a three year project to optimize the resources of their respective organisations with the objective of improved outcomes for the service user and enhanced public services overall. The result has been the development of a human rights based approach with a bespoke staff manual and on-line tools.

Uniquely, the initiative is now endorsed by the European Ombudsman, the IOI and the European network of National Human Rights Institutions, as a model of best practice in applying human rights obligations to day to day Ombudsman investigative work.

In May 2016 the offices of the NIO and the NIHRC warmly invite you to participate in an International Conference which will focus on sharing the features and benefits of the manual. At its core, this new approach seeks to empower complainants, frontline services and investigative staff by applying cutting edge international, regional and local knowledge in an accessible way. The new assessment process has charted changes in the manner in which cases are accepted and investigated and the human rights based approach has facilitated more meaning findings.

The conference will be based in the Stormont Hotel Belfast from 25 to 27 May 2016. For some first information please see the attached flyer below. The full conference programme and detailed booking information including delegate fees, travelling and accomodation options will be available from 1 December 2015.

Source: Office of the Northern Ireland Ombudsman, UK