How to complain - for people detained under the Mental Health Act


We can help with complaints about health services received if you have: 

  • been detained
  • are subject to guardianship; or
  • are on Supervised Community Treatment

Please contact the independent healthcare provider or the NHS trust in the first instance. For more information on these complaints processes visit the links below:

Tel. 0115 8736250

What will we do

We will acknowledge your complaint within five days and respond to your complaint within 25 days. 

What our powers cover

Whilst our powers to investigate are limited to the use of powers and duties in the Mental Health Act, we can make sure that health services are correctly applying and interpreting the Mental Health Act - the key law which ensures that the rights of people subject to detention, guardianship or supervised community treatment are respected and retained.

So whilst we can't formally investigate all aspects of your care and treatment, we can make sure that we provide advice and assistance if you're making a complaint against a health service and that the service is fully meeting the requirements of the Mental Health Act.

Further Information

If you would like more information about how we can help you with your complaint please contact us at the address below: 

Care Quality Commission
The Belgrave Centre
Stanley Place
Talbot Street
Nottingham
NG1 5GG

Tel. 0115 8736250