Scottish Public Services Ombudsman

If you have complained to us and are still unhappy with our final decision, you can ask the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) to review your case. The SPSO is independent and investigates complaints about public services in Scotland. You should only contact the SPSO after you have completed our complaints process and received your final response.

When you can contact the SPSO

You can ask the SPSO to review your complaint if:

• you have received our final response
• you are not satisfied with the outcome

The SPSO cannot usually look at:

• complaints that have not completed our process
• issues you knew about more than 12 months ago
• matters already considered in court or by a tribunal

What the SPSO does

The SPSO is the final stage for complaints about councils and other public services. They look at whether your complaint was handled properly and fairly.

Their service is free and impartial. They do not take sides.

How to contact the SPSO

You can contact the SPSO in the way that suits you:

• Call 0800 377 7330
• Visit the SPSO website
• Use their contact form
• Write to Scottish Public Services Ombudsman, Bridgeside House, 99 McDonald Road, Edinburgh EH7 4NS

If you want to visit in person, you must book an appointment in advance.

Need help?

If you are not sure whether the SPSO can look at your complaint, call their advice line. They will explain your options and next steps.

Accessible formats

To have this information supplied in a different format or language, please contact equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk.