Who can complain?
Any patient can make a complaint if they are unhappy with services received from the NHS. Our advocates can help you to complain about treatment you have received from your GP, a hospital or services based in the community such as dentists or opticians.
In certain circumstances, you may be able to make a complaint on behalf of another person as long as they agree – you should get their permission in writing. If you wish to make a complaint on behalf of somebody who is unable to give consent due to illness, impairment or disability, you may do so without their permission, although the NHS Trust will confirm the patient’s lack of capacity before accepting the complaint. If they do not accept the complaint they must inform you in writing why this decision has been reached.
Am I able to make a complaint about the treatment of somebody who has died?
Yes. You may make a complaint on behalf of somebody who is deceased, even if you were unable to get their permission before they died. In some circumstances, the NHS may decide not to accept you as a suitable representative. If this happens they will discuss their reasons with you.
Can I make a complaint on behalf of someone who is under 18?
You may make a complaint on behalf of a child but only if the child is unable to do so themselves.
NHS organisations must not consider a complaint made by a representative of a child unless they are sure the child is unable to do so. If they do not accept the complaint they must inform you in writing why this decision has been reached.