Right to appeal

Following a hygiene inspection of your premises by a food safety officer, you will be told in writing - either at the time or within 14 days (this includes weekends and public holidays) - what your food hygiene rating is.

If you think that the rating is wrong or unfair - in other words it does not reflect the hygiene standards at the time of inspection - you can appeal against this.

What should I do if I want to appeal my food hygiene rating?

It is a good idea to speak informally first of all to the food safety officer that carried out the inspection of your premises - you will be given the contact details for this officer at the bottom of your report.

This will help you to understand how your rating was worked out and to see if still want to appeal it. If you do still think the rating given is wrong or unfair, you can appeal. Please note that any discussions you have do not change the deadline within which the appeal must be.

How to make an appeal

You should complete the right to appeal form or you can make your appeal in writing and return it to the lead officer for food.  You can return the appeal using one of the following methods:

  • By email to [email protected]
  • By post to Environmental Health, Cheltenham Borough Council, Municipal Offices, Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 9SA

  

How long do I have to appeal?

You must make your appeal in writing within 21 days of being notified about your food hygiene rating. This period includes weekends and public holidays. If you do not appeal within this time, we will publish your food hygiene rating online at food.gov.uk/ratings.

What happens next and when will I know the result?

If you make an appeal, food.gov.uk/rating will show that your food hygiene rating is 'awaiting publication'. The lead officer for food or the designated deputy will review your case. The officer that gave the rating will not consider your appeal. In some circumstances, a further visit to your premises may be required.

You will be notified of the result of the appeal within a maximum of 21 days from the date that the appeal was received by the council. Once you have been notified of the result of your appeal, your rating will be published online at food.gov.uk/ratings.

What if I don't agree with the outcome of the appeal?

You can challenge the council's decision by judicial review. Even if you decide to do this, your rating will still be published at food.gov.uk/ratings. If you think that the council has not followed processes properly, you can use the council's complaints procedure.