51É«APP

If you’re worried about your cancer care, then it's important to raise your concerns even though it may feel difficult.

The information on this page will help you to find out more about who to talk to when you're concerned.

When standards of care aren't met

All cancer services are required to meet certain standards of care.

However, there may be times when you feel that your care, or the care of someone close to you, isn't good enough.

There are a number of ways to raise concerns so you can improve the situation quickly and make sure it doesn't happen again.

Worries around raising your concerns

Even though you feel something isn't right, you may be reluctant to take things further and raise your concern.

You might be concerned that raising your concerns could cause tension, and you may be worried that your future care will be affected.

You may feel that nothing will change regardless. Or you may just be feeling overwhelmed and unable to take on anything else that comes from raising your concerns.

Even though it can be a difficult step, speaking up can help you feel more in control, draw a line under what's happened or improve relationships with your healthcare team.

The people who care for you will welcome your feedback because it will help them make improvements and help others in the future.

Raise concerns directly first

If you feel able to, the best way to raise concerns is with the team involved.

They may not be aware of the issue and how it's affecting you so a conversation can often help resolve any misunderstandings or problems quickly.

Getting help to make a complaint

If your concerns feel unresolved, you don't know who to approach, or feel you can’t talk to a team directly, there are different support agencies that can help.

They offer informal information and advice and can have discussions on your behalf to try and resolve an issue. If you need to take things further, they can also help you make a formal complaint.

Each organisation has local offices. You can find out how to get in touch on their websites:

• England and Wales:  and in some areas of Wales
• Scotland: 
• Northern Ireland: 

Maggie's is here with you

Our Cancer Support Specialists, Benefits Advisors and Psychologists are here listen to your concerns and can help you find the support you need.

• 51É«APP your nearest Maggie's centre â€“ you don't need an appointment, just come in

Last review: May 2026 | Next review: May 2029