Parts of the system are getting better and my overall concern is that the new system should not be damned if complaints go up

Anne Parker Independent Case Examiner (ICE),

But the examiner warned that people being dealt with under the old system might want to be transferred to its replacement, while others would battle to remain under the old regime for as long as possible because it favoured their cases.

"The agency is facing real challenges next year," added Mrs Parker, who leaves her post at the end of this month to head the National Care Standards Commission.

"Parts of the system are getting better and my overall concern is that the new system should not be damned if complaints go up.

Legitimate complaints

"People will still have legitimate complaints, which will get put right much more quickly."

The Child Support Minister, Patricia Hollis, said: "The agency clearly faces a challenging year as it prepares for the new, simpler system being introduced for new cases in April.

"I am sure that it will rise to the challenges ahead."

The ICE has received funding for an extra 18 case examiners to increase its staff to 55.