Equality Act 2010: Primary legislation ensuring equal treatment and preventing discrimination based on protected characteristics in educational settings
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Legislation governing how personal data must be handled, processed and protected during the complaints process
Human Rights Act 1998: Ensures fundamental rights are respected throughout the complaints process, including right to fair hearing
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Protects students as consumers of higher education services and ensures fair treatment in service delivery
Higher Education and Research Act 2017: Framework legislation for higher education regulation and student protection in England
Education Act 1994: Legislation governing aspects of higher education including requirements for student unions
Office for Students (OfS) Regulatory Framework: Regulatory requirements that higher education providers must follow, including complaint handling standards
QAA UK Quality Code: Standards and guidelines for maintaining academic quality and standards in higher education
CMA Higher Education Guidance: Consumer protection guidelines specific to higher education providers
OIA Good Practice Framework: Guidelines for handling student complaints and academic appeals in higher education
UK Professional Standards Framework: Standards for teaching and learning support in higher education, relevant for teaching-related complaints
Natural Justice Principles: Legal principles ensuring fair decision-making, including right to be heard and absence of bias
Student Contract Requirements: Institution-specific terms and conditions governing the relationship between student and institution
Academic Regulations: Institution-specific rules governing academic matters and related complaints
Student Protection Plan: Required document outlining how student interests are protected during significant changes
Access and Participation Plan: Document detailing how the institution ensures equality of opportunity in higher education
Safeguarding Legislation: Laws protecting vulnerable students and ensuring their safety during the complaints process
Mental Health Framework: Guidelines for supporting students with mental health concerns during complaints procedures
International Student Regulations: Specific requirements for handling complaints from international students, including visa implications
Professional Body Requirements: Standards and procedures required by relevant professional bodies for complaints in professional courses
