How to raise a complaint if you feel your circumstances were not considered

What this article is about
This article explains what to do if you believe your special circumstances or reasonable adjustment request was not considered properly.

Who this is for
Doctors and dentists in training, applicants or new starters who are unhappy with how a special circumstances or adjustment request has been handled.

What you need to know

• You should first check the decision or response you received and whether further information was requested.
• Some issues may be resolved by asking for clarification or providing missing evidence.
• Complaints must follow the relevant complaints or review process.
• If your concern relates to an employer decision, you may need to use your employer’s process.
• If your concern relates to recruitment, you may need to follow the recruitment complaints route.
• You should be clear about what decision, process or action you are challenging.

What to do

1. Read the outcome or response carefully.
2. Check whether the issue relates to missing evidence, timing, eligibility, placement availability or another process.
3. Gather relevant correspondence and evidence.
4. Raise a query first if you need clarification.
5. If you remain dissatisfied, submit a complaint through the relevant route.
6. Clearly explain what you believe was not considered and what outcome you are seeking.
7. Keep a copy of your complaint and any response.

If this does not work
If the complaint relates to a process outside HET, you may be directed to your employer, recruitment team or another organisation.

Who to contact
Use the PGMDE Support Portal for HET training-related queries and complaints. Contact your employer for employment-related complaints. Contact the recruitment team for recruitment complaints.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Reviewing HET training-related process concerns through the appropriate route.
• Confirming whether further information is needed.
• Directing you to the correct complaints process if the issue sits elsewhere.

HET cannot help with

• Overturning employer decisions.
• Considering complaints outside the relevant process.
• Guaranteeing a preferred placement, employer or rota.
• Providing legal advice.

Related articles

• Evidence and documentation needed for a special circumstances application
• Who to contact about special circumstances or reasonable adjustments
• How to raise a complaint or appeal about an IDT decision

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026