System guide
Rights, complaints & advocacy
Use the correct first-stage complaint route, keep a written record, then escalate to the body that actually has jurisdiction.
Content checked 2026-09-28. Processes can change; use the linked sources before acting.
HSE services
For HSE and many HSE-funded services, start with the service/provider and Your Service Your Say as directed by current HSE guidance.
Children and schools
The Ombudsman for Children can examine certain complaints within its remit, but it generally expects the relevant organisation’s process to be tried first.
Adults needing independent advocacy
The National Advocacy Service provides free independent representative advocacy to adults with disabilities, particularly people in vulnerable situations.
Decision support
The Decision Support Service is the statutory information point for formal decision-support arrangements under assisted decision-making law.
Equality and reasonable accommodation
Where the issue is disability discrimination or a failure to consider reasonable accommodation, use IHREC’s rights information to identify the relevant equality route. Complaints may have strict deadlines, so do not delay while pursuing an informal resolution.