Specsavers holding me to ransom?

djhworld

In summary: -

I wear contact lenses and hold a direct debit plan with Specsavers for a monthly supply of contact lenses. These usually get distributed to me every 3 months.

Recently, my latest 3 month supply of lenses failed to arrive so I phoned Specsavers explaining my predicament who said my lenses had arrived in store and they were holding on to them until I went for a "after care" appointment, which won't be available until a few weeks away.

I understand that contact lens checks are necessary but surely they could distribute the lenses to me under the promise of a future appointment? Also, previous contact lens checks have involved the requirement of having to wear my lenses for at least a few hours prior to the appointment - how can I do this when they have my lenses?

Are they in their rights to do this? Is there some legal ground for them to stop distributing lenses in the same way doctor's can veto prescriptions? My direct debit came out yesterday so at the current moment in time I'm paying money for a service I'm not receiving.

bazster

djhworld wrote: »

In summary: -

I wear contact lenses and hold a direct debit plan with Specsavers for a monthly supply of contact lenses. These usually get distributed to me every 3 months.

Recently, my latest 3 month supply of lenses failed to arrive so I phoned Specsavers explaining my predicament who said my lenses had arrived in store and they were holding on to them until I went for a "after care" appointment, which won't be available until a few weeks away.

I understand that contact lens checks are necessary but surely they could distribute the lenses to me under the promise of a future appointment? Also, previous contact lens checks have involved the requirement of having to wear my lenses for at least a few hours prior to the appointment - how can I do this when they have my lenses?

Are they in their rights to do this? Is there some legal ground for them to stop distributing lenses in the same way doctor's can veto prescriptions? My direct debit came out yesterday so at the current moment in time I'm paying money for a service I'm not receiving.

You must have some kind of contract with Specsavers for this, see what it says in the small print.

nedmundo

djhworld wrote: »

Are they in their rights to do this? Is there some legal ground for them to stop distributing lenses in the same way doctor's can veto prescriptions? My direct debit came out yesterday so at the current moment in time I'm paying money for a service I'm not receiving.

They're actually not legally allowed to supply you with the lenses until after your aftercare check has been done. It makes since as your specification may have altered.