Complaint Route Finder
Select the type of organisation you want to complain about and we will show you the right route, including which ombudsman or regulator to contact.
Who do you want to complain about?
About this tool — how it works
This tool matches the type of organisation you select — banking, energy, telecoms, NHS, council, housing, retail, travel, education, water, post, or a general “something else” option — to the ombudsman, regulator, or redress scheme that normally deals with complaints in that sector. For each sector it shows a short description of what the body does, a summary of the typical process (including any award limits it can make), and links to the relevant complaint guide and the body’s own website.
Every result repeats the same underlying rule: you must complain to the organisation itself first and give it a reasonable period, usually eight weeks, to respond before you can escalate — unless it sends you a final response or deadlock letter sooner.
The tool only makes a single sector-to-body match. It does not check the facts of your dispute, confirm whether your case falls within a scheme’s time limits or monetary limits, know whether the specific company is a member of the scheme shown, or account for the different bodies that can apply in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. Treat the result as a starting point and confirm the details on the ombudsman or regulator’s own website before you complain.
Frequently asked questions
How does the complaint route finder work?
You pick the type of organisation you are complaining about from twelve options — banking, energy, telecoms, NHS, council, housing, retail, travel, education, water, post, or "something else". The tool then shows the ombudsman or regulator that normally handles that sector, a short explanation of the process, and links to relevant guides.
Do I need to complain to the organisation first?
Yes, in almost every sector shown by the tool. Ombudsmen and ADR schemes generally only accept a complaint once you have given the organisation itself a chance to resolve it — typically eight weeks, or sooner if they send you a final response or deadlock letter.
What if my situation does not fit any of the listed sectors?
Choose "Something else" and the tool points you to the general guide on complaining effectively, the full list of complaint guides, and a page comparing complaint routes, so you can work out the right body for your specific case.
Does the tool check whether my specific complaint qualifies?
No. It only matches a sector to the organisation that typically handles complaints in that area. It does not check time limits, monetary caps, or eligibility rules for your individual case — you will need to check those on the ombudsman or regulator’s own site.