In most cases you must direct a formal complaint to the broadcaster first
Formal complaints must be sent to the broadcaster of a programme before you can complain to the BSA. This gives the broadcaster an opportunity to answer your complaint in the first instance, and you may be satisfied with their response without needing to refer a complaint to the BSA.
The only exceptions are:
- Election programme complaints, which must be referred directly to the BSA
- Privacy complaints, which can be referred directly to the BSA if you prefer
If you are making a privacy complaint but you are also complaining about breaches of other standards, in particular fairness, we suggest that the broadcaster deals with your entire complaint in the first instance. That way, if you do eventually refer your complaint to the BSA, the complaint can be considered as a whole.
What if I have already made a complaint to the broadcaster?
You can refer your complaint to the BSA if:
- You made a formal complaint to the broadcaster, and you have received a decision from the broadcaster; or
- It has been more than 20 working days since you lodged your complaint, and you have not received a decision from the broadcaster.
