How to make a complaint

We are committed to providing high-quality services. Sometimes, as a customer, you may feel our standards are not good enough. When this happens, we want to understand the situation, fix any issues quickly, and learn from them.

A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction by one or more members of the public about the Council's action or lack of action, or about the standard of service provided by or on behalf of the Council.

If you are telling us about something for the first time, please allow us to put things right before complaining by contacting the local service directly.

Common faults or concerns:

What we do not deal with as complaints

  • A request for compensation only
  • Issues that are in court or have already been heard by a court or a tribunal, please go to the Scottish Court Service
  • A disagreement with a decision where a statutory right of appeal exists, for example, in relation to council tax or planning
  • Previously concluded complaints, please go to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman

Make a complaint

If you have tried reporting the problem and it has not been resolved, you can make a complaint in the following ways:

We understand that you may be unable or reluctant to make a complaint yourself. We can accept complaints from a friend, relative, or an advocate if you have given them your consent to make the complaint on your behalf. If you require further information, email complaints@highland.gov.uk.

You can find out about advocates in your area by contacting the Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance.

Complaints about schools

Find a school

Complaints about Councillors

If you would like to make a complaint about a Councillor, contact the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life.

Page last modified: 7 April 2026

Complaints and Information Team

Address: Complaints and Information Team
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road
Inverness
IV3 5NX