Publication date: 09.02.2026
3 years of experience in the legal field in England; specialized in property purchase and sale transactions; refinancing; change of property ownership (Transfer of Equity).
The process of submitting complaints to government authorities in the United Kingdom has its own particularities and depends on the type of violation, the availability of evidence, compliance with deadlines, and procedures established by law. Citizens and residents do not always know that they can protect their rights through official complaints in cases of violations of administrative rules, discrimination, breaches of labor rights, non-payment of compensation, or unlawful actions by government bodies. In many cases, submitting a complaint to the relevant authority is an effective way to restore justice and obtain compensation or rectify the situation.
Question
How can a resident submit a complaint to a government authority in Britain ?
Answer
If a resident believes that their rights have been violated by a government authority (for example, unlawful decisions, delayed payments, discrimination, or violations of administrative procedures), they have the right to submit an official complaint. Before submitting, it is often necessary to follow the internal procedures of the authority, such as using online platforms or official complaint forms. After that, a written complaint can be submitted, including all available documents that confirm the violation.
Process of submitting a complaint to a government authority:
- The resident submits the complaint within the prescribed period (usually within 3 months from the moment the rights were violated).
- To support the claims, it is necessary to provide documents, correspondence, payment statements, testimony, or other evidence.
- The authority reviews the complaint, hears both sides, and makes a decision regarding the legality of the actions, the possibility of compensation, or rectifying the situation.
- In case of disagreement with the decision, the resident has the right to appeal or refer to higher authorities, including independent ombudsmen.
Important to have:
- Documents confirming the submission or the violation of rights.
- Correspondence with the government authority and other evidence.
- Proof of harm or unlawful actions by the authority.
If there are doubts about the correct submission of the complaint or the prospects of the case, it is advisable to consult a lawyer or specialist in administrative law. They can help properly formulate the claims, prepare the documents, and ensure protection of your rights.
- Residents of the United Kingdom have several rights that can be protected through submitting complaints:
- Protection against discrimination based on gender, age, nationality, religion, or disability.
- The right to timely and full receipt of compensation, social benefits, or services.
- Rectification of unlawful actions by government authorities or restoration of violated rights.
- The ability to receive consultation regarding administrative procedures and legal norms.
Question
What should be done if a resident’s rights are violated?
Answer
If a resident has evidence of rights violations (documents, correspondence, testimony), they can:
- Submit a complaint directly to the government authority;
- Use internal complaint resolution procedures;
- Contact an independent ombudsman or higher supervisory authority;
- Obtain legal advice to prepare documents and protect residents’ rights
.
A lawyer can assist with:
- Preparing and submitting the complaint;
- Formulating a legal position and collecting all necessary evidence;
- Representing the client during the complaint review;
- Appealing the authority’s decision if necessary.
Typical situations requiring a lawyer’s help:
- Non-payment of compensation or social benefits;
- Unlawful actions by government authorities;
- Delays in reviewing complaints or refusal to provide services;
- Violations of labor rights in government institutions;
- Issues with residence documents or social rights.
Legal assistance allows residents of the United Kingdom to effectively protect their rights through submitting complaints to government authorities. Involving an administrative law lawyer reduces the risk of errors in documents, increases the chances of successfully resolving the case, and helps save time and reduce stress. Residents receive support at all stages – from preparing documents to representing their interests before authorities and supervisory bodies.
