How to make a complaint about your childcare provider

Worried child is at risk

If you are worried that your child is in danger, call 999.

If your child is at risk or there is a safeguarding issue, please call golden number 020 8901 2690 and option 1.

Speaking to providers if you are not happy with the childcare service

If the child is not at risk or danger and you are having an issue over contracts, fees or other matters, please discuss with the childcare provision manager or head. They should all have a complaints procedure that they can share with you.

Formal Complaint to Ofsted

Complaining to Ofsted

Concerns about standards and protection

If you're concerned about childcare standards or a protection issue, first raise it formally with the childcare provider. If you're not satisfied with the outcome make a complaint to Ofsted.

Ofsted can investigate issues about:

  • the quality of childcare provided by Ofsted registered childcare providers including childminders
  • childcare providers who are not currently registered with Ofsted but require registration

Complain to Ofsted

Ofsted does not deal with issues regarding your childcare contract. If you need advice about contract disputes you can seek legal advice from Harrow Citizen’s Advice Bureau.