The earlier an issue is raised, the more likely the issue can be resolved, and further conflict and stress can be avoided.

It can be difficult to talk about integrity issues, but raising issues with the person that you’re unhappy with — or with your club or organisation — gives them an opportunity to make things right. It can also be a quicker and less formal way to solve the issues. You will often be able to get an explanation or an apology directly from those involved.

• You can make a complaint to your club or organisation — they should have a process for receiving and handling complaints

• You can also raise the issue directly with the person that you’re unhappy with if that seems appropriate and safe in the circumstances.

If you don’t want to raise the issue directly with the person or with your organisation, that’s ok. You can make a complaint to us or contact us for information.

Identify what you would like to complain about. Focus on the main issues and what you would like to happen — how can they make this right?

It might help to write your thoughts down. Talking to family, whānau or friends can help you make sense of what you would like to complain about.

It’s best to put your complaint in writing, especially if the complaint is complicated. A friend, family or whānau might be able to help you do this.

You can also call your local club or organisation to find out about its complaints process or make a complaint over the phone. If you make your complaint over the phone, make sure to write down who you spoke to, when you spoke to them and what was said.

Even if the club or organisation sorts the issue out for you, it is still helpful to keep a written record in case you need to refer to it later. You may even be able to get something in writing from them.

If your club or organisation has a complaints policy, follow the process set out in their policy.

If you’re unsure who to contact, address your complaint to your club’s complaints officer or a committee member.

Try to make your complaint as clear and short as possible. Focus on the main issues and key information.

Include:

• your name and contact details

• relevant dates, places, and times

• a description of the issues or the incident

• details of any conversations or other steps you’ve taken to try and sort out the problem

• any other information you think is important

• any relevant documents.

Tell the person you are complaining to what you would like to happen. This could be an apology or them taking steps to sort out the issues you have raised.

Ask for your complaint to be acknowledged in writing. If you need an urgent response (for example, the complaint relates to an upcoming tournament), let them know.

Most clubs and organisations want to do the right thing by their participants. They may need some time to resolve the issue, but this doesn’t mean that they should ignore you or drag their heels by taking too long.

Keep a written note of your complaint and any conversations or meetings you’ve had. Include dates, who you have spoken to, and any agreements reached.

If you haven’t heard anything from your club or organisation, or haven’t been able to sort out the issue, then contact us.