The Pensions Ombudsman investigates and decides complaints and disputes about the way that pension schemes are run.

Complaints about the sales and marketing of pension schemes are dealt with by the Financial Ombudsman Service.

The Pensions Ombudsman's role and powers have been decided by Parliament, and he is appointed by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. He is completely independent and acts as an impartial adjudicator.

There is no charge for using the Pensions Ombudsman's services.

The Pensions Ombudsman's decision is final and binding on all the parties to the complaint or dispute. It can be enforced in the Courts. His decision can only be changed by appealing to the appropriate court on a point of law.

The present Pensions Ombudsman is Tony King. There is also a Deputy Pensions Ombudsman, Charlie Gordon. The Pensions Ombudsman and the Deputy Pensions Ombudsman have the same powers to investigate and determine complaints. References to “the Pensions Ombudsman” on this website are to both ombudsmen.