Carrying out the complaints procedure safely: aggressive or threatening behaviour

If you’ve had to stop a complaints investigation due to aggressive behaviour from parents/carers, you still need to carry out the process set out in your policy. Find out how to proceed fairly and safely for all involved.

Last reviewed on 30 September 2025
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 52318
Contents
  1. First steps after an incident
  2. Know your legal standing
  3. Decide how to proceed safely
  4. Keep the procedure fair and compliant

For an overview of the complaints process, see our article on how to manage complaints. If you’re looking for more information on how and when to stop a meeting due to unsafe behaviour, see our other article. 

First steps after an incident

When you've had to stop a meeting due to aggressive behaviour, make sure you take the following actions before deciding how to proceed with the complaints process:

  • Record the incident according to your school's procedures
  • Take time to check on the wellbeing of any staff or governors involved in the incident
  • Write to the parent/carer to confirm that the meeting was stopped and why – explain that you'll write to them again shortly to outline the next steps in the process
  • Consider seeking advice from your local authority (LA), trust or legal representatives on how to proceed safely. They may advise on alternative ways to conduct the hearing

When deciding how