Investigation of complaints
All of the facts surrounding the complaint should be
established using a systematic approach. This is managed
at a local level; the person investigating the complaint
should be trained and must be independent of the part
of the service being complained about. However, when
more serious complaints are being made an independent
investigator may be required to look into the issues.
Evidence needs to be collected. This can occur in a number
of ways—for example, by interviewing people, analysing
records and other documents, visiting places and requesting
expert advice. Once collected, the evidence must be assessed
in order to start making fair and reasonable decisions based
on the circumstances associated with the case.
Most complaints about services are resolved at local
level. However, some complaints are more difficult to
resolve and mediation may be needed. An impartial
mediator is a person who aims to help both parties reach
an appropriate conclusion to the issues that have arisen.
The mediation will involve various stages.