Need help to make an NHS complaint - try ICAS

03/07/2008

The Independent Complaints Advocacy Service (ICAS) has been commissioned by the Department of Health to provide a confidential advocacy support service that is free and completely independent of the NHS.

 

It is open to anyone who wishes to make a complaint about aspects of his or her NHS care and treatment - whether from a GP, dentist, hospital or primary care trust, mental health/learning disability trust or ambulance service. 

 

ICAS, established to support patients or relatives and carers on their behalf, aims to ensure people have access to the support they need to navigate the complaints system, therefore maximizing the chances of their complaint being resolved quickly and effectively. It is essentially a client led service, delivering support ranging from the provision of a self help pack and face-to face meetings at home, through to the assignment of an advocate who will work with the client focusing directly on helping with the complaints process.

 

Advocates are available to take calls Monday - Friday 9am to 5pm, and 5pm to 7pm on Thursdays. Please write to: Clarendon House, 9-11 Church Street, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 7QG. Tel: 01256 463758.

 

You can also find out more about ICAS at the website below.