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Former PHSO, Rob Behrens
Rob Behrens, the former Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), has been awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Rob stepped down from his role in March 2024 at the end of his tenure following seven years’ service. During his time as Ombudsman, Rob oversaw the development of a ground-breaking Ombudsman accreditation programme for senior caseworkers, brought in new Complaint Standards for Government and the NHS, and introduced mediation into PHSO’s range of services.
In partnership with other European Ombudsman schemes, Rob contributed to the development of the new benchmark for ombudsman independence and effectiveness - ‘The Venice Principles’. He also hosted the first Manchester Memorandum event when Ombuds from more than 30 countries met to discuss how to create stronger Ombudsman institutions.
Rob said, “It was with great honour that I served as the UK Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. This award is recognition of the vital role Ombudsman services play in our country to understand when things go wrong, the lessons that can be learned and help people access justice.”
Source: The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, UK
