The number of complaints made to the Ombudsman for Children leaped significantly in 2011.

According to the office's latest annual report, there were almost 1,500 complaints lodged last year, which was a 22 per cent rise on 2010.

Education issues accounted for almost half of the total grievances, with complaints up nine per cent on the previous year.

The most common subjects of contention were the failure of teachers or principals to address worries raised by parents and changes to the provision of school transport.

Others included bullying, special needs resources and problems with boards of management.

Children's Ombudsman Emily Logan commented: "While the number of complaints are increasing, we are trying to select cases that will deliver change for more children."

She explained that the office will only choose to pursue an individual case if it is likely to be "very powerful" in helping to bring "systemic change" that will reach a broad group of youngsters.  

Written by Donal Walsh

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