Report to External Regulator Letter Template & Generator

If you need to formal report of wrongdoing to an external prescribed regulatory body, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong report to external regulator should include, plus a free tool to generate yours.

What this letter needs to cover

• Identify the prescribed regulator being contacted
• Set out the disclosure clearly with facts dates and evidence
• Explain why internal reporting was insufficient or not appropriate
• Confirm this is a protected disclosure under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998

When reporting directly to an external regulator is the right route

Certain serious wrongdoing is better reported directly to a prescribed external regulatory body — such as the FCA for financial misconduct, the HSE for safety violations, or the CQC for care quality issues — particularly where internal reporting has failed, or where you reasonably believe it would be ineffective or risk evidence being concealed.

What to include before you send it

• A clear, factual description of the wrongdoing
• Why you believe this specific regulator is the appropriate recipient
• Any evidence supporting your report
• Whether you wish to remain confidential or anonymous, and to what extent that's possible

Why choosing the correct prescribed regulator matters

For your disclosure to enjoy the same legal protection as disclosing to your employer, it generally needs to go to a body formally recognised (prescribed) for that type of concern — checking you're reporting to the right regulator for your specific type of wrongdoing matters for ensuring your protection applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which regulator is the correct "prescribed" body for my concern?
The government publishes a list of prescribed persons and bodies for whistleblowing purposes, organised by the type of concern — it's worth checking this list to confirm you're reporting to the right one.

Will the regulator tell my employer that I made this report?
Many regulators have processes to protect your identity, though this can vary depending on how the investigation needs to proceed — it's worth asking directly about confidentiality when you make your report.

See our full letter template & generator library for related letters, or use our free checkers for guidance specific to your situation.