Example of a letter of complaint

Forming your complaint

If you wish to make a complaint to the Parliamentary Ombudsman, you may either use the electronic complaints form or write a a letter of complaint and post it to us. If you complain on behalf of a third party, you must attach an authorisation from the party concerned. The following letter provides an example of how a letter of complaint might be worded. Please remember that the complaint must be signed.

How to reason your complaint

It is important that you explain as precisely as possible which public agency your complaint refers to (municipality, directorate, ministry or other). You should also explain the error or maladministration that you believe has been brought about by the agency concerned. Normally it will be sufficient to write one or two pages explaining the situation. If your complaint concerns a specific decision, you should give the date of the decision and preferably attach a copy of the decision.

Attachments

All documents that you believe can serve to illustrate the case should be attached to your complaint. Please enclose copies of relevant documents. Please inform us of any original documents that you wish us to return to you. The office of the Parliamentary Ombudsman may also request that the case documents be submitted by the public agency concerned.

Example of a letter of complaint 

«Kari Hansen      
Ankeveien 99      
9999 Lilleby 

The Parliamentary Ombudsman for Public Administration
P.O. Box 3 Sentrum
0101 Oslo

I am a single parent responsible for two children, aged 6 and 9. I am unable to find employment here in Lilleby. Because of the needs of my children, I am unable to seek work elsewhere.

I receive only a small maintenance allowance. In addition, I receive a small amount in benefit from the National Insurance Office. I have no other income. As a result, I am unable to pay necessary expenses for clothing and accommodation. I have written up a statement of my current income and expenses showing the hopelessness of my financial situation.

Even so, my application for social security has been rejected. I am attaching a copy of the letter of rejection. I have complained to the County Governor, but the complaint was rejected. The County Governor agrees with the social security office. I am also attaching a copy of this letter. The County Governor’s decision is dated 22 July 2008, so I am making my complaint within the Ombudsman’s one-year time limit.

Can the Ombudsman help me?

Sincerely
Kari Hansen»

Do you need help to form your complaint?

If you find it difficult to form your complaint, you may contact us and request the assistance of an executive officer. You may be given guidance by telephone, or you may make an appointment to discuss your case at this office.