Distance Learning Regulations

dannie

I passed an online course early this year run by a charity. However, after repeated requests for the certificate it still has not arrived. As I paid for the course, isn't it a "contract" by the course organisers that they have to fulfil? What can I do next as "consumer" to obtain this part (i.e. the certificate) of my course fee?

Thanks.

Mankysteve

Who ran the course. There are not really any regulations as such for distance learn regs you could take them to small claims for not following there side of the contract.

dannie

Thanks Mankysteve - animal-related charity. It was an online course (privately put together I assume) so that is why I term it "distance learning." What a disappointment if the small claims court is the next step....

unholyangel

Distance Selling Regulations doesnt just apply to goods, it also applies to services.

First thing to decide is what you want to achieve. From what you've said, you'd be happy just getting your certificate?

And next, you should have received some sort of order confirmation that would have contained T&C's in a durable form? What do they say in regards to their obligations and your obligations?

dannie

Thanks for the comments unholyangel.

Yes, I just want the certificate.

There isn't exactly any terms and conditions; just course content with a certificate based upon successful completion of this course.

unholyangel

So they did say that at the end they would provide a certificate?

If that is the case, then you could argue it is part of the "contract".

How did you pay for the course?

pinkshoes

I'd just send a recorded delivery letter giving them 14 days to either send you your certificate, or give you a full refund of <amount>.

If you hear nothing, write again, this time entitling it "Letter Before Action", and request the same, but threaten small claims court.

dannie

Definitely did say they would provide a certificate and also have an email to say so when I completed the course. If it is a broken "contract" then, is this covered by trading standards? (Cannot remember how I paid so will have to have a look for this).

Yes, I thought about a recorded delivery letter today.

Thanks both.

dannie

Found it. I have the print out of the original emails about payment. In brief, a cheque was sent to their main address. Might still have the cheque number.

dannie

Thanks all as this problem is now solved. In the end, I posted a message on their forum and received a prompt reply/explanation. The certificate then arrived within a week.