Complaint Handling
Complaint Handling Process
How to make a complaint or submit a query
If you feel you have been harassed or discriminated against based on any of the protected grounds under the Human Rights Act, 1981 (‘the Act’) you can reach out to the Human Rights Commission with your complaint or query in the following ways:
- Visit the Office – walk-ins are welcome between 8:45am-5pm Monday-Friday
- Email the Commission at humanrights@gov.bm
- Telephone the Office at 295-5859
We are located at Milner Place, 32 Victoria Street (ground floor).
The complaint must fall within one or more of the areas covered by the Human Rights Act together with a ground.
A complaint should be made within six months of the alleged incident(s) although complaints may be considered up to 2 years after the incident if there is sufficient reason for the delay, and no one would be prejudiced due to the delay.
Who can make a complaint?
Someone can make a complaint on behalf of another person, if that person consents and/or is unable to do so. Please note, we will also log complaints that are made anonymously, but without contact, we cannot progress the complaint.
The Human Rights Commission and its Officers treat all intakes, whether queries or complaints, with the strictest confidence.
What can you approach the Commission about?
Your complaint or query will be logged confidentially, and an Officer will work with you to determine whether the Human Rights Act covers your complaint, if there has been a breach of rights, and how we can best assist. We will work with you to resolve the complaint or query and will also provide information about alternative agencies that may also be able to assist you in resolving your complaint or query where appropriate.
We also address queries related to broader human rights issues and are available for consultation.
How to respond to a complaint
Confidentiality
Voluntary Mediation Program
Mediation is a method of resolving complaints by bringing the parties together and helping them move from a conflict situation into a process of collaborative negotiation and settlement. It is a practical process through which the mediator helps the parties to check their facts and assumptions, exchange perceptions and ideas, and work towards mutually agreeable solutions.
Mediation is a free service offered by the Commission. Once a mediator has been agreed upon by both parties, (the complainant and the respondent) he or she works closely with the parties to facilitate a resolution. Participation in a mediation process is voluntary, but recommended as a means to help address grievances.
Referrals
Each and every intake received (whether it is a complaint or query) is considered in relation to the Human Right Act, 1981. It may be that your complaint or query could be better addressed by alternative agencies or support services, and the Commission will work to identify referrals to aid your efforts in resolving your question or complaint.
If your particular complaint does not fall under the Human Rights Act, Officers will notify you and the complaint will be closed however, where appropriate, referrals will be provided to other agencies which may be better suited to assist in resolving the matter.