What this tool does

This tool tells you which ombudsman or regulator can help with your complaint, whether it is worth escalating, and exactly how to take things further when a company will not put things right.

It is practical guidance to point you in the right direction, not legal advice.

When to use it

Use it when you have complained to a company and got nowhere, when you are not sure which ombudsman covers your problem, or when you want to know whether escalating is worth your time before you start.

How it works

You tell it what your complaint is about, whether you have already complained to the company, and briefly what happened. It then names the right ombudsman or scheme, explains whether you first need a final response or deadlock letter, the usual time limits, and the practical steps to submit your complaint. Nothing you enter is saved, and you do not need to give your name or email to use it. Most ombudsman services are free to use, so if your complaint qualifies it is usually worth pursuing.