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COMPLAINTS POLICY

HOW TO SUBMIT A COMPLAINT

  1. Speak with Our Team
    If you have a concern during your visit, we recommend speaking directly with your dentist or the staff member involved. Most issues can be resolved quickly through open communication, and we want to ensure your satisfaction while you are at our practice.

  2. Written Complaints
    If you would prefer to submit a formal complaint in writing, you can do so by:

    • Emailing: manager@sldc.co.uk

    • Mailing: South Lakes Dental Clinic, Kents Bank Road, Grange Over Sands, Cumbria LA11 7EY

  3. Complaints Form
    If you wish to remain anonymous or prefer a more structured process, we offer a complaints form available at our front desk or on our website. You can fill out this form and submit it directly to the practice.

 

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU SUBMIT A COMPLAINT?

  1. Acknowledgment
    We will acknowledge receipt of your complaint within [insert time frame, e.g., 3-5 business days]. We aim to address all concerns as quickly as possible and will keep you informed of our progress.

  2. Investigation
    We will carefully review the details of your complaint, including gathering information from the involved parties, such as the dentist, staff, and any relevant documentation (e.g., treatment records). Our goal is to fully understand the situation and determine the best course of action.

  3. Resolution
    After reviewing your complaint, we will contact you to discuss the matter further. In some cases, we may offer a resolution, such as:

    • A formal apology.

    • A change in your treatment plan.

    • A refund or adjustment to any fees, if applicable.

    • Referral to another specialist or provider if appropriate.

  4. Feedback
    We will make every effort to resolve your concern to your satisfaction. If you are not happy with the outcome, we encourage you to reach out again, and we will reconsider your complaint to ensure that all aspects are addressed.

  5. Confidentiality​                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Please rest assured that all complaints are handled with the utmost respect for your privacy and confidentiality. We will never disclose any information regarding your complaint without your permission unless required by law.

WHEN TO CONTACT EXTERNAL AUTHORITIES

If you feel that your complaint has not been addressed appropriately by our practice or that your concern requires additional assistance, you can contact external organisations for further support:

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  • Local Health Ombudsman (or Equivalent)
    In some cases, you may contact your local health ombudsman or health authority to escalate your complaint if you believe your issue is not being resolved fairly.

  • General Dental Council (GDC)
    The GDC is the regulatory body for dental professionals in the UK. If you feel that a dental professional’s conduct or behaviour has fallen below acceptable standards, you can file a complaint with them by:

  • visiting their website https://www.gdc-uk.org/

  • The dental complaints service  dcs.gdc-uk.org

WHY YOUR FEEDBACK MATTERS​

Your feedback is invaluable in helping us maintain and improve the quality of care we provide. By sharing your experience, you help us identify areas of improvement and ensure that future patients receive the best possible care. We appreciate your time and effort in helping us enhance our practice.

Contact Information

For any complaints, concerns, or feedback, please contact us:

  • Phone Number: 01539533166

  • Email: manager@sldc.co.uk

  • Mailing Address: South Lakes Dental Clinic, Kents Bank Road, Grange Over Sands, Cumbria LA11 7EY

  • Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm

We take every complaint seriously and are dedicated to resolving any concerns you may have in a fair, timely, and professional manner.

Thank you for your trust and cooperation. We are committed to providing the best dental care experience possible.

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