Clarity + Direction

The complaints library

Everything you need to run a strong complaints function. Plain English explainers, step-by-step guides, and tools that make everyday work easier for handlers, managers, and senior leaders. Written by people who have run regulated teams for 20+ years.

Thursday, July 16, 2026
Blog author
Sue Simpson

Would the FCA’s own complaint report meet the expectations it sets for regulated firms?

We assess the FCA’s 2025/26 complaint report against the complaint-handling, root cause analysis and customer outcome expectations it sets for regulated firms.

Thursday, June 4, 2026
Blog author
Stevie Whitmore

Why did this complaint occur? Using the Fishbone Diagram and 5 Whys to strengthen complaint handling

Learn how to use the Fishbone Diagram and 5 Whys to investigate complaints, uncover root causes, and improve outcomes in regulated complaint handling.

Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Blog author
Michael Gorner

Spreadsheet reporting blind spots in complaint handling: why manual complaint MI arrives too late

Manual complaint MI can look controlled while hiding delays, data gaps and weak oversight. Why spreadsheet reporting leaves leaders reacting too late.

Thursday, May 7, 2026
Blog author
Emma Scott

Why PS25/19 marks a turning point for complaint MI and what firms need to do next

PS25/19 changes how complaint MI is viewed. Why reporting alone is not enough and what stronger oversight now looks like in practice.

Friday, March 13, 2026
Blog author
Carlos Sanchez

Why customer understanding and complaint handling are more connected than firms think

The FCA’s latest consumer understanding paper shows how poor communication, weak processes, and missed support needs can turn into complaints, repeat contact, and avoidable risk.

Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Blog author
Ruby Knight

Complaint handling KPIs for regulated firms: what to track and how to evidence them

Track the complaint handling KPIs FCA-regulated firms must monitor under DISP and Consumer Duty. Practical metrics, examples, and reporting guidance.

Thursday, February 5, 2026
Blog author
Mia Ratcliffe

The difference between managing complaints and resolving them well

Complaint resolution is not just about process. Learn the difference between managing complaints and resolving them well, with FCA-aligned best practice, evidence standards, and real FOS case insight for regulated firms.

Friday, January 23, 2026
Blog author
Sue Simpson

FOS insurance complaint trends: Uphold rates, claims handling and risk

Analyse long-term FOS insurance complaint data to understand uphold rates, claims pressure, and where complaint risk is increasing under Consumer Duty.

Monday, January 5, 2026
Blog author
Harry Mansfield

FOS interest rate changes in 2026: why timing matters in complaint handling

From 1 January 2026, FOS interest on compensation generally tracks the Bank of England base rate plus 1%. What this means for complaint handling delays, compensation cost, and escalation risk.

Thursday, November 27, 2025
Blog author
Stevie Whitmore

Decoding FCA and FOS guidelines in complaint outcomes

How FCA rules, guidance, and FOS decisions shape complaint outcomes, escalation risk, and defensibility in regulated case handling.

Featured Blogs

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Friday, August 29, 2025

What is complaint management software?

Learn what complaint management software is, how it helps regulated teams manage complaints, and why structured workflows improve oversight and outcomes.

Blog author
Michael Gorner