Making a complaint

We know it can be hard to know where to start when making a complaint.

We can help you find out how to make your complaint and If you need ongoing support we can put you in contact with a local organisation that may be able to help.

Your right to complain

If you are not happy about the care you have received from NHS or social care services you have a right to make a complaint. 

All NHS trusts and local authorities have a complaints procedure which tells you what will happen when you make a complaint. You can link to complaints information and contacts for local NHS trusts and North Tyneside Council below.

Advocacy services

Advocacy services operate independently from the NHS and local authorities. They can help you express what you’re unhappy about and what changes you’d like to see. The North East NHS Independent Complaints Advocacy (ICA) provides free, independent support if you wish to raise concerns and make a complaint about your recent experience.

You can contact ICA on freephone 0808 802 3000. To find out more about ICA, the services they provide and other ways you can contact them, click here.

Please contact us if you would like to be referred to ICA and we will complete the referral form for you.

PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service)

If you have a concern about NHS services but do not want to make a complaint you can contact PALS on freephone 0800 0320202, text 01670 511098 or email northoftynepals@nhct.nhs.uk

Making a complaint about Healthwatch North Tyneside

If you have a concern or complaint about Healthwatch North Tyneside you can raise this by contacting Paul Jones – Director, on 0191 263 5321, email p.jones@hwnt.co.uk or using our online contact form

You can read our Comments, Complaints and Compliments policy here