Raising and acting on concerns flowchart - text alternative

Published 17 September 2026

Raising concerns - a quick guide

Follow these steps to help you decide how to raise your concern and get the right support. More detail is available in our Raising and acting on concerns guidance and on our speaking up pages.

If patients are, or may be, at risk of death or serious harm, don't delay. Act as best you can to make the situation safe and report your concerns immediately.
Always keep a written record of your concerns and any action you take.

Can you put the matter right?
- Yes: go to What to do if you answer yes.
- No: continue to question 2.
Can you raise this with your team, department or a neighbouring department?
- Yes: go to What to do if you answer yes.
- No: continue to question 3.
Can you escalate the issue within your organisation or with your postgraduate training organisation?
- Yes: go to What to do if you answer yes.
- No: continue to question 4.
Can you get advice from a speaking up or whistleblowing advocate in your organisation?
- Yes: go to What to do if you answer yes.
- No: go to Get independent advice and support.

Work with your colleagues and follow local processes. Get independent advice and support if you need it.

Yes: share any learning and feedback with colleagues. Your experience is important for getting things right in the future.
No: get independent advice and support.