General concerns about health service provision

There are other possibilities open to an individual. Patient safety incidents can be reported to the National Patient Safety Agency, which is responsible for reporting errors which occur so that the NHS can learn from its mistakes.

Also, NHS complaints about the management of NHS Trusts can be made directly to the body in question. The matter, if not dealt with to the satisfaction of the individual, can then go to the relevant strategic health authority (SHA). If the complaints are about a board member, the chair of the SHA can refer the case to the Appointments Commission if felt appropriate.

Organisations that can help

Other organisations that can provide help and advice for people unhappy about the NHS services they have received; include Action against Medical Accidents, the Citizens Advice Bureau, the Independent Complaints Advocacy Service, the Independent Mental Health Advocates and the Patient Advice and Liaison Services.