提出武装部队服务投诉
如何根据2006年《武装部队法》提出正式申诉。
概述
If you are a serving member of the UK Armed Forces (or have recently left) and have a grievance about any matter relating to your service, you can make a Service Complaint under section 340A of the Armed Forces Act 2006. This covers bullying, harassment, discrimination, terms of service, pay, allowances, medical treatment, career management, and any other service-related matter. The system is overseen by the Service Complaints Ombudsman for the Armed Forces (SCO).
谁可以使用此程序
- You are a serving member of the UK Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve)
- Or you have left service but the complaint relates to a matter during service
- Your complaint relates to a matter affecting you personally in your service
- You are making the complaint within the normal 3-month time limit (or can show good reason for delay)
逐步流程
Try Informal Resolution First
Before making a formal complaint, consider whether the matter can be resolved informally through your chain of command, unit welfare officer, or the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA). Many issues can be resolved quickly without formal procedures.
- Speak to your chain of command or welfare officer
- Keep a record of any conversations and outcomes
- Informal resolution does not prevent a formal complaint later
Submit a Formal Service Complaint
Submit your complaint in writing using the Joint Service Publication (JSP) 831 form or equivalent service-specific form. Clearly describe: what happened, when, who was involved, what you want as an outcome, and why you believe the matter is wrong. Submit to your Commanding Officer (or the next level if the CO is the subject of the complaint).
- Be specific about dates, times, places, and people involved
- State clearly what outcome you are seeking (apology, compensation, policy change, etc.)
- Keep copies of everything you submit
Investigation and Decision
Your complaint will be acknowledged and assigned to a Decision Body (usually a senior officer). The Decision Body will investigate the complaint, which may include interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and taking advice. You have the right to be kept informed and to submit additional evidence.
- You can be assisted by a unit Assisting Officer throughout the process
- The target time for a decision is 24 weeks, though complex cases may take longer
- You may be asked to attend an interview — you can bring your Assisting Officer
Appeal if Dissatisfied
If you are not satisfied with the decision, you can appeal to the Defence Council (or its delegate, the Service Complaint Appeal Panel). The appeal must be made within 2 weeks of the decision. The appeal body will review the case afresh and may uphold, vary, or overturn the original decision.
- Set out clearly why you disagree with the decision
- New evidence can be submitted on appeal
- The appeal decision is final within the service complaints system
Refer to the Service Complaints Ombudsman
If you believe your complaint has been handled improperly or there has been undue delay, you can refer the matter to the Service Complaints Ombudsman (SCO). The SCO can investigate maladministration in the handling of the complaint (though not re-decide the merits). The SCO can make recommendations and report to Parliament.
- The SCO cannot overturn a decision but can recommend it be reconsidered
- You can contact the SCO at any stage if there is undue delay
- The SCO's annual report highlights systemic issues
费用
重要警告
The 3-month time limit for making a complaint is strictly applied, though late complaints may be accepted if there is good reason for the delay.
If your complaint involves criminal conduct, report it to the Service Police (RMP, RNP, or RAFP) — the service complaint system does not deal with criminal matters.
Discrimination complaints may also be brought in an Employment Tribunal (within 3 months) — seek legal advice on which route is best.
You are legally protected from disadvantage or victimisation for making a service complaint.