Concerns about end of life care

More than half of the complaints referred to the NHS ombudsman in the UK concern end of life care, with an emphasis on spiritual matters. If you are unhappy about the end of life care your relative has received, you can make an official complaint. Please see the links below for more information.

Concerns about a funeral services

For any concerns or complaints you have about  a funeral director, talk to the National Association of Funeral Directors. It is also possible to write a review of a funeral director on the Funeral Advisor website provided by the Natural Death Centre

Concerns about legal or financial matters

If you are unhappy with the way your relative’s legal and financial issues have been dealt with by your lawyer, or you want any advice about legal issues, contact the Law Society.

Further help and support

Inspection and regulation by UK country

England

NHS Choices: making a complaint

Advice on how to make a complaint about end of life care.

Care Quality Commission

Checks quality of care meets national standards in all areas of the NHS across England.

Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman

Investigates complaints about poor service.

Wales

Health in Wales - Public accountability

Hub for complaints and suggestions about treatment in NHS Wales.

Scotland 

Healthcare Improvement Scotland

National body monitoring all NHS and independent healthcare services in Scotland. 

Northern Ireland

Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority

Monitors and inspects the availability and quality of health and social care services in Northern Ireland.

General

Citizens Advice Bureau

Will point you in the right direction if you want to make a complaint about end of life care.

General Medical Council

Provides advice if you want to make a complaint against medical staff.

Legal issues

GOV.UK

Deals with your rights and the law

The Law Society

Provides information on how to make a complaint against a solicitor or barrister.