Welcome to the Northern Ireland Prisoner Ombudsman site

The Prisoner Ombudsman is appointed by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and investigates complaints from prisoners held in Northern Ireland who remain unhappy with the answer they have received from the Prison Service. The Ombudsman is completely independent of the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS).

The current Ombudsman is Brian Coulter, and a team of investigators and other staff supports him.

This website is here to help you understand how and when you can use the office of the Prisoner Ombudsman for Northern Ireland.