Britannia Driving School Refusing Refund!

Janets_Daughter

Good Morning Everyone,

I am having some problems with Britannia Driving School ans would really appreciate some advice from more knowledgeable people! Here's the story:

I called Britannia to enquire about driving lessons and once they had established that there was an instructor available on the dates and times I was free. I booked and paid for 20hrs of lessons. Upon meeting the instructor, he confirmed that he was not available after work or on the weekends as stated, but managed to squeeze me in for two lessons after he had some cancellations. I wrote to Britannia explaining this and asking for a refund. After waiting nearly two weeks for them to respond (I also called on 4 occasions for an update and was told that there was no one available for me to talk to) I called and they told me that they I was wrong and the instructor was not unavailable and that they had found me another instructor. I was not happy with this due to the unfortunate customer services that had received and stated that I was not happy to continue with them and wanted a refund. they responded that they don't issue refunds! At no point, in writing or verbally, was I informed that they don't refund.

I would like to know if there is some kind of regulatory body that I can report them to? And what else I can do to get my money back?

Many thanks

maninthestreet

They've offered you an instructor for the times you requested, so they are not in breach of contract. Disinclination on your part to take up this offer does not entitle you to a refund.

Janets_Daughter

I would have been happy to take them up on this offer. However, they originally gave me erroneous information, were rude in their dealings with me, kept me hanging on for a resolution and denied that they had been in anyway at fault. Once all of this had occurred I think I am justified in taking my business elsewhere. Again, at no point did they inform me that no refund would be available before during or after money changed hands.

Mankysteve

Indeed you've sorted something out for ya so your not entitled to a refund

motorguy

Janets_Daughter wrote: »

I would have been happy to take them up on this offer. However, they originally gave me erroneous information, were rude in their dealings with me, kept me hanging on for a resolution and denied that they had been in anyway at fault. Once all of this had occurred I think I am justified in taking my business elsewhere. Again, at no point did they inform me that no refund would be available before during or after money changed hands.

They're sticking to their side of the contract, albeit with a poor customer service experience.

I cant see any reason why they should be expected to refund you.

LJM

i have to agree they have come up with an instructor holding up their part,its your driving and your instructor you need to be listening and paying attention to now,customer services are not in the car with you. yes they may have been rude but it sounds like the situation has been dealt with and i dont think there is a lot you can do

[Deleted User]

One of the reasons why I never paid for block bookings upfront when I was learning to drive. As it gives the instructor no incentive to fit you in for lessons when you want as they know they already have your money. Where as if you are paying lesson by lesson, they'll do all they can to fit you in to get your money.

rev_henry

Don't really know about your rights in this situation but I know quite a few of these driving school franchises offer dreadful service from their head office/call centre to both instuctors and potential pupils. Best going to a local independent instructor.

daveyjp

NEVER PAY FOR LOTS OF LESSONS UPFRONT.

It is sold as being cheaper, but it's not difficult for companies to add a few lessons at the end to get the money back from the discount.

Inactive

Contact DSA ( Driving Standards Agency ) if you really feel you have a genuine complaint.

maninthestreet

No doubt the OP will also demand a refund from their driving school if they fail their driving test.