Appeal procedures should be laid down in the legislation (see Annex 1) and administrative details should be described in the DRA’s guidelines for applicants (see above).

Informal appeal mechanisms can also be made available and described in policy guidelines. These are often effective and they avoid the need for legal processes, which are costly and time-consuming for all parties. In their simplest form, the DRA may wish to encourage applicants to telephone and discuss decisions with the decision-maker. If necessary and useful, a meeting can be set up as described above. In appropriate cases, and where available, professional mediation may avoid the need for legal action.