Woman in headscarf putting her hand up at Healthwatch event

Deciding to make a complaint? 

Making a complaint can feel daunting and scary, and you might be wondering whether it’s worth the time and effort. However, if you have problems with an NHS or social care service, you need to resolve these to get the care you need.

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Knowing how to make a complaint

Making a complaint can be a daunting task, so knowing who you can complain to and what to do is essential. 

We can help you. We've worked with Healthwatch England to produce straightforward advice that will guide you through the process from knowing who to talk to, top tips on what to do and what you can expect from services in response. 

Read our complaints advice

Care Quality Commission (CQC) 

The Care Quality Commission use what people tell them to understand the quality of care they get from services like care homes, care agencies, hospitals and GPs. It helps make care better for everybody.

They look at it alongside other information. For example, information from the service itself or what they found when they last visited them. 

Contact the CQC 

Downloads

Complaints flow chart

Complaints advocacy services

Every area of England has an independent NHS complaints advocacy service funded by the local authority. They can help you make a complaint about an NHS service or work out what you want to achieve from a complaint. 

You will need to contact your local authority to find out who holds your local advocacy service contract.

Contact your local authority 

Patient Advice Liaison Service 

Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS) offers confidential advice, support and information on health matters. It provides a point of contact for patients, families and carers.

PALS do not investigate individual complaints but can give you general advice about the NHS complaints procedure.

Contact PALS service