Please complete this application form if you want the Service Complaints Ombudsman for the Armed Forces (SCOAF) to investigate the substance and/or maladministration in the handling of your Service Complaint.
What is a substance investigation?
An investigation into why you think the Service's decision on your Service Complaint was wrong, to decide whether or not we think the complaint is well founded. We do not accept all eligible applications for investigation.
What is a maladministration investigation?
An investigation if you think something was wrong or improper in the way your Service Complaint was handled. We do not accept all eligible applications for investigation.
Applications to SCOAF
You can only ask for a substance and/or maladministration investigation once you have received a final decision on your complaint at the end of the internal process.
Not all applications for investigation are accepted. Each application is assessed to determine if:
- the application was made in time
- there is a reasonable prospect a new investigation would result in a different outcome
- an investigation would be a proportionate use of the Ombudsman’s powers
- the redress requested can be achieved
- there is a public interest in conducting an investigation
If your application is not accepted, you will receive a decision letter explaining why.
If you need any further information, or assistance with your application, please phone 0300 369 0689 or email contact@scoaf.org.uk.
